High Wycombe Conservation Area updated to protect the town's heritage

The updated document brings together the town's four existing Conservation Areas into a single, clear boundary and extends protection to four additional areas of historic and architectural significance. By strengthening protection for the town's heritage while supporting appropriate future development, the plan will help ensure High Wycombe remains an attractive and distinctive place to live, work and visit for generations to come. The decision was approved by Cabinet today (10 November).

The extension includes four additional areas of historic and architectural significance: the south end of High Wycombe Cemetery, Temple End and the former police station, Totteridge Avenue and Gordon Road, and London Road and High Wycombe Cricket Club. The changes follow a detailed review of the town's Conservation Areas and a six-week public consultation which concluded in April, with feedback from residents, businesses and community groups helping to inform the final appraisal and management plan adopted by Cabinet.

Conservation Areas recognise places of special architectural and historic interest and help ensure that any future changes respect and enhance the qualities that make them unique. The updated appraisal includes a new management plan, which will guide future planning decisions and provide an up-to-date framework for protecting High Wycombe's distinctive character, heritage and sense of place.

The updated Conservation Area will help ensure that High Wycombe's heritage continues to be protected as the town evolves. It will also help guide future development so that it reflects the character of the area while supporting a thriving and attractive place for residents, businesses and visitors.

Buckinghamshire Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Councillor Peter Strachan, said:

“I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to share their views during the consultation. The feedback we received demonstrates how much people value High Wycombe's history, character and heritage.

“The updated Conservation Area will help ensure that the features which make High Wycombe unique are recognised and protected for future generations.

“As the town continues to evolve, it is important that change is managed carefully and that new development respects the area's historic character while supporting a thriving town centre and community.

“This updated appraisal gives us a strong framework for doing just that, helping to preserve what people value about High Wycombe while supporting its future.”