It is common for areas of historic towns and villages to be designated as Conservation Areas. These areas can vary greatly in size and character, but generally it is the appearance of the area, rather than individual buildings, that justifies the designation.

Conservation Areas were first established by the Civic Amenities Act 1967. The statutory definition of a conservation area is one of "special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance." Planning legislation makes it clear that local authorities should give "special attention" to those areas and their enhancement. One of the main purposes of designating a Conservation Area is to ensure that development proposals preserve or enhance the character of the area.