Planning Permission

Why Hardwood is the Required Material

There are around 380,000 listed buildings in England, with Grade II buildings making up approximately 92% of all listed buildings in the UK.For the vast majority of these properties, timber is not just the preferred choice — it is the only acceptable one.

Where window replacement is agreed, local planning authorities expect the replacement to use a suitable hardwood, European softwood, or metal. uPVC will not be considered acceptable. Traditional timber is often the preferred — and sometimes the only — material choice in conservation contexts. This preference is rooted in historical authenticity: timber has been a fundamental building material for centuries, and virtually all properties historically featured timber windows.

Working with Architects & Heritage Specialists

We work directly with architects, heritage consultants, conservation officers and main contractors on listed building and conservation area projects. We understand the documentation these projects require and can support your specification process with:

  • Full product specification sheets
  • Technical drawings and CAD files on request
  • CE marked windows and doors — certification ready for planning submissions
  • Supply only or supply and install — depending on your project requirements
Bright dining room with a glazed roof lantern, French doors, cream flooring and views over the garden.
White orangery-style extension with tall glazed panels, arched glazing bars and a flat roof on a brick house.

When Does a Conservatory Require Planning Permission?

You’ll need planning permission if:

  • The conservatory is at the front of the house or faces a road.

It doesn’t meet the following criteria:

Size limits:

  • Detached houses: extension can’t extend more than 4 metres from the rear wall (or up to 8 metres with prior approval).
  • Semi-detached/terraced: 3 metres (or up to 6 metres with prior approval).

Height:

  • Maximum height of 4 metres.
  • If within 2 metres of a boundary, the height must not exceed 3 metres.

Conservatory Planning Permission continued

  • Coverage: The total area of all extensions and outbuildings must not cover more than 50% of the land around the original house.
  • Storeys: Must be single-storey only.
  • Materials: Should be similar in appearance to the existing house.
  • Your property is a flat, maisonette, or converted building (permitted development rights usually don’t apply).
  • You live in a designated area (e.g. conservation area, national park, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), where stricter rules apply.
  • The property is a listed building (you’ll likely also need listed building consent).
  • Previous extensions have already used up your permitted development allowance.
bespoke conservatory

Customers Love Our Commitment to Quality

Read some of our customer reviews for reassurance that you're working with a professional and reliable timber specialist.

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February 25, 2026

I am a commercial property developer based in Jersey and I use Country Hardwood to supply all my timber doors...
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Andrew Frigot

Other
February 25, 2026

A First Class company, professional in every way. They made me a custom window for my old cottage. We started...
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John

Trustpilot
February 19, 2026

So pleased with our roof lantern in our new extension, helpful staff, excellent communication, very efficient, very fair price and...
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Sophie Y

Google
February 19, 2026

I cannot fault the service we have received from Mark and designer Jason. From the moment we placed our order...
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Rukhmah Saleem Designs

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February 19, 2026

We are architects and purchased windows, front and patio doors for our own house. We are really happy with the...
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Alex Schramm

Google
February 19, 2026

I have just ordered my 3rd set of windows and doors from Country Hardwood and absolutely cannot fault the quality...
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Reuben Peckham

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February 19, 2026

I used Country Hardwood to design and manufacture replacement windows and doors for my home. They provided an excellent design...
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Alan Tatham

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February 19, 2026

Absolutely incredible customer service. Country Hardwood truly stand behind their products and support their customers to an exceptional degree. We...
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Mike Lewis

Google
February 19, 2026

Really happy with my whole experience with Country Hardwood. Instead of the typical bifold doors I wanted a more traditional...
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Jason Smith

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Contact Country Hardwood today to discuss how we can help you with your next project.

Call us on 01296 714 314







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