Local Areas of Special Character (LASC)

Local Areas of Special Character (LASC)

Some parts of Kingston upon Thames have high quality townscape, architecture and landscape. They add to the richness of the local built environment and local distinctiveness but may not be of conservation area quality. By setting these areas out as Local Areas of Special Character (LASC) we recognise:

• the quality of the architecture and landscape
• the local value of that area
• the importance of its protection for future generations

How LASCs differ from Conservation areas

Conservations areas recognise:

• outstanding environmental interest or importance
• outstanding historical interest or importance

LASCs recognise:

• particularly good examples of environmental interest or importance
• particularly good examples of historical interest or importance

In a conservation area your permitted development rights are restricted. Permitted development rights allow you to make certain changes to a building without planning permission. 

But in a Local Area of Special Character your permitted development rights are not affected. Demolition is not prevented either. However, you do need to show that any environmental change has a positive impact on the Local Area of Special Character.