Conservation Area Appraisals (CAAs) help define the special architectural and historic interest of an area, to clarify why it merits 'designation'. An appraisal also identifies the character of the area, and features which should be enhanced or conserved.
Features which may contribute to character include:
- historic and locally significant buildings
- green and open spaces
- significant views
- natural elements such as trees and waterways
- features which make the area locally distinct
Appraised conservation areas in York
In York 9 conservation areas have been appraised (including York's Central Historic Core Conservation Area Appraisal (HCCAA), in line with guidance from Historic England:
- Fulford road Conservation Area Appraisal, 2010
- Fulford village Conservation Area Appraisal, 2008
- Heslington Conservation Area Appraisal, 2009
- Nestlé/Rowntree factory Conservation Area Appraisal, 2008
- Racecourse and Terry's factory Conservation Area Appraisal, 2006
- Strensall Conservation Area Appraisal, 2011
- Strensall railway buildings Conservation Area Appraisal, 2011
- Towthorpe Conservation Area Appraisal, 2011
Heritage Topic Paper
Our Heritage Topic Paper provides a background to how York's special character has evolved. It explains the 6 principle characteristics of the historic environment that help define York's special qualities:
- strong urban form
- compactness
- landmark monuments
- architectural character
- archaeological complexity
- landscape and setting
Village Design Statements
Village Design Statements (developed by the local community) describe the distinctive character of our local villages; they set out design guidelines so local character can be protected and enhanced within new development.