Sash Window Preservation has received some fantastic News!
A new Local Development Order (LDO) has made it easier for Homeowners in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea to upgrade traditional windows with high-quality timber double glazing — without the need for a separate planning application, where the conditions are met.
This is a major step forward for owners of period properties, flats, houses, and homes within conservation areas who want to improve energy efficiency, reduce noise, and preserve the original character of their property.
At Sash Window Preservation, we specialise in sympathetic timber window upgrades that respect the architectural heritage of your home while delivering modern performance.
What does the new LDO allow?
The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea’s Local Development Order allows residential properties across the borough to replace or alter windows without individual planning permission, provided the new windows meet the required conditions.
This applies to:
- Flats and apartments
- Dwelling houses
- Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
- Properties within conservation areas
- Properties affected by certain Article 4 Directions
The permitted work includes:
- Replacing existing windows with timber windows of a similar appearance
- Adding double glazing while maintaining the original look and character
- Replacing existing uPVC windows with traditional timber windows
What does “similar appearance” mean?
The Council defines similar appearance as windows that maintain the same:
- Material
- Style
- Pattern
- Design
There may be small differences in frame dimensions or glazing bar profiles, but the overall appearance must remain sympathetic to the original design.
This means homeowners can now benefit from modern timber double glazing without compromising the traditional appearance of their property.
Conservation areas and Article 4 Directions
Previously, many properties in conservation areas or affected by Article 4 Directions required planning permission before windows could be changed.
The new LDO specifically allows certain window replacements even in these areas, providing a much simpler route for homeowners looking to improve their windows while preserving the character of their home.
Important exclusions and conditions
While this is excellent news for many homeowners, there are still some important points to consider.
The LDO does not apply to:
- Listed buildings (planning permission is still required)
- Conservatory windows
- Roof lights
- Glazed or solid doors
Other requirements may still apply, including:
- Maintaining obscure glazing where required
- Keeping non-opening windows where restrictions apply
- Meeting Building Regulations
- Obtaining freeholder or leaseholder consent where necessary
At Sash Window Preservation, we can guide you through the process and ensure your new windows meet the relevant requirements.
Why upgrade to timber double glazing?
Traditional timber windows are a key feature of many period properties. Replacing tired, single-glazed, or unsuitable windows with carefully designed timber double glazing can provide:
- Improved thermal efficiency
- Reduced outside noise
- Better comfort throughout the year
- Increased window lifespan
- Preservation of your property’s historic character
Modern timber windows combine traditional craftsmanship with advanced glazing technology, giving you the best of both worlds.
A practical checklist before replacing your windows
Before starting your project, make sure you:
✓ Confirm your property is not listed
✓ Check that your replacement windows meet the “similar appearance” requirements
✓ Maintain any required obscure glazing or non-opening specifications
✓ Obtain any required freeholder or leaseholder approval
✓ Ensure the installation complies with Building Regulations
How Sash Window Preservation can help
At Sash Window Preservation, we create bespoke timber double-glazed windows designed to replicate original profiles, glazing bars, and period details.
Our experienced team will assess your property and recommend a sympathetic window solution that respects the character of your home while meeting the LDO requirements.
Whether you live in a conservation area, own a period flat, or simply want to improve the performance of your sash windows, we can help.
Site surveys and quotations are free.
Ready to upgrade your windows?
Contact Sash Window Preservation today and discover how our handcrafted timber double‑glazed windows can preserve and enhance the authentic character of your period home.
Phone:
01603 908 252
01223 927 252
