What are heritage conservation areas?

HCAs are streetscapes, suburbs, areas and precincts that are recognised by a community for their distinctive historic character. They often provide evidence of a particular historical period of development and/or a distinct architectural style, and generally have a high proportion of original buildings. HCAs are protected because they create a cohesive sense of place and evidence historical characteristics that are valued by the community. Their significance is often associated with the underlying land subdivision, the street pattern, arrangement of lots, and a predominance of buildings that share common periods of development, historical associations, materials, form and scale.

Most HCAs are listed on Schedule 5 of the LEP and managed by council. However, there are examples of state listed conservation areas that are subject to regulation and approvals under the Heritage Act. Further, HCAs can also be listed on non-statutory registers, such as the Glebe Conservation Area which is listed on the National Trust Register (NSW Chapter).