Conservation Area Extension

Otham Conservation Area Update

The new boundaries for Otham have been formally adopted.

The final document and the associated map are shown below. Please note, the map will be updated to include the Willington estate once MBCs systems have been updated, but they currently do not have a timeline for that.

Otham Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan - Adopted.pdf

We are pleased to report that the Otham conservation area extension has now been approved by Maidstone Borough Council. This extends the conservation area from Otham across to Church Road.

This extension to the conservation area was approved at the CAAMP council committee meeting of MBC on the 4th of June 2025. The minutes are available on the MBC website. A question often asked is 'can houses be built in a conservation area'. The following guide maybe helpful:

Yes a builder can build new houses in a conservation area, but there are stricter planning controls and design requirements in place to preserve the area's character and appearance.

Key Points:

What Is Allowed

• New builds are possible but must be sympathetic to the local character, including materials, scale, and layout.
• Every application is judged on its merits, and good design that respects the setting may be approved.

What Makes It Harder

• Demolition or significant alteration of existing buildings may require Conservation Area Consent.
• Permitted development rights are restricted, so things like extensions, roof changes, or new boundary walls might need full planning permission.
• Local councils may have an Article 4 Direction, removing more rights and requiring more permissions.

Steps a Builder Must Take:

1. Pre-application advice from the local planning authority is strongly recommended.
2. Submit a full planning application with detailed drawings and a Heritage Statement.
3. Engage with a heritage consultant or architect experienced in conservation area work.

Common Grounds for Refusal:

• Poor design not in keeping with local style.
• Negative impact on heritage assets or street scene.
• Overdevelopment or loss of green space.

Summary:

Yes, building in a conservation area is possible—but not without careful planning, design, and full council oversight. The focus will always be on preserving or enhancing the historic environment.