Double Glazing Planning Rules Eased for Flats in Conservation Areas
New double glazing planning rules under consultation could soon allow flat owners to upgrade their windows without planning permission, even in conservation areas across Kensington & Chelsea.
The proposed Local Development Order (LDO), which would be the first of its kind in the country, could make it far easier for residents in flats to replace windows, provided the new designs are similar in appearance to existing ones. The aim is to remove red tape while preserving the character of historic buildings.
Councillor Johnny Thalassites, Lead Member for Planning and Environment at Kensington and Chelsea Council, said:
“Residents shouldn’t need to become planning whizzes to install double glazing in their homes. Most people have enough to be getting on with without their local Council getting in the way of going green. This order is all about making it easier for residents to do the right thing.”
He added that the policy would give people greater certainty and reduce bureaucracy:
“Last year, 79 of 85 applications for changes to windows were granted in K&C, so it’s a no-brainer to simplify the process.”
What Would the New Rules Allow?
If adopted, the new order would allow:
- Single glazing to be upgraded to double glazing
- Old double-glazed windows to be swapped for modern, energy-efficient alternatives
- uPVC windows to be replaced with wood, if preferred
- Replacement windows in flats without requiring planning permission – as long as they are “of similar appearance” to the originals
It would apply to all residential buildings, including those in conservation areas.
Greener Homes, Less Hassle
The Council is backing up the proposal with householder guides for making homes more sustainable. A new windows guide is being prepared to reflect the potential rule change, complementing the existing flood adaptation guide.
The aim is to help residents make greener choices more easily, while also ensuring that historic neighbourhoods retain their character.
Protecting Heritage While Going Green
The draft order comes with clear guidance for homeowners and landlords to ensure replacement windows are in keeping with local style and heritage. Although planning permission would no longer be needed, freeholder consent and building control approval may still apply.
The Council says this is about removing unnecessary steps in a process that is already widely approved. In fact, 92% of all window change applications were granted last year in the borough.
Have Your Say
The consultation is open until Wednesday 16th July 2025.
You can view and respond via the Council’s planning consultation pages.
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