What we do 

Our core activity is examining Planning Applications for building work in, or near, the town’s two Conservation Areas. We meet monthly to review current planning applications, which may be for anything from a large development of new houses, to replacing a single window in an existing property. After our discussions, we may support or oppose an application, recommend a more suitable alternative, or just offer advice on how the work should be carried out.

 

Our advice is considered by the District Council or the SDNPA when they decide whether to approve an application.

 

Because Lewes is in the South Downs National Park, major planning applications and policy decisions are dealt with by the SDNPA, though most routine planning decisions are delegated to the District Council and applicants should contact them for advice. Past and current planning applications and the comments made about them, can all be viewed on the SDNPA’s planning portal.

 

We also keep a look out for buildings at risk or other problems in the Conservation Area  and try to get them dealt with.