Looking to improve kerb appeal in St Cross, Cathedral Close, Hyde, St Giles Hill or surrounding villages? Here’s how to modernise driveways and façades while satisfying conservation expectations.

What planners like to see

• Respect for original fabric: Keep proportions, openings and detailing.
• Reversible interventions: Minimise loss of historic material.
• Quality materials: Clay tiles, natural slate, lime mortars, timber, quality metalwork.

Driveway upgrades (sympathetic & sustainable)

• Surfaces: Permeable gravel, clay pavers, permeable setts; avoid vast impermeable tarmac.
• Edges: Stone or brick kerbs to match boundary walls.
• Drainage: On-plot soakaways; avoid shedding water to the highway.
• Planting: Retain trees/hedges; add pleached screens for privacy with minimal visual bulk.
• Lighting: Low-glare, warm LED bollards or wall lights on timers.

Façade refreshers that get a nod

• Timber door upgrade in a historically appropriate style/colour.
• Slimline double-glazed sashes (where acceptable) or refurbishment with draught-proofing.
• Lime render/repair rather than cement; careful brick repointing with lime.
• Refined porch/canopy sized to suit the elevation; avoid oversized pastiche.
• Discreet EV chargers integrated near meter boxes or side elevations.

Permissions & approvals

• Conservation area consent/planning may be required for boundary changes, new hardstanding, or façade alterations.
• Listed Building Consent for any works affecting special character.

FAQ
Can I widen my dropped kerb? You’ll need highways consent and planning if affecting walls/piers in conservation areas.
Can I use modern cladding? Occasionally at rear/side; on principal façades in heritage streets, it’s rarely supported.