Windows in conservation area

[ppsweet]

Hiya. I'm a newbie, not sure if i'm doing this right so bear with me!!!!
I live in a conservation area, i applied for planning permission for replacement windows. My neighbours already have replacement windows on both sides of me and the mansionette above me, but i have been refused.

Anys idea on what i should do now?

[HiHo]

Hi ppsweet

Have you talked to your neighbours about how they got permission to have the windows replaced? That would be my first thing, who did they deal with, were there an problems, if so how were they resolved.

Jon

[ppsweet]

Hiya.

Yes when i was refused i asked my neighbours nearby, they have all replaced their windows several years ago and did not ask for planning permission!!

Unfortunately i now have no choice but to get permission as the council now have proof that i have only recently asked to have my windows replaced!! I also now have a letter from the council advising me that i cannot replace my windows without permission for 10 years.

I have appealed but they have said the windows should be repalced with wooden frames and not UPVC. As the wooden frames are double the price and would not match the surrounding properties this makes little sense to me.

[HiHo]

Oh!

Bit awkward then. Are there any grants available in your area for help with buildings in conservation areas? Or perhaps for energy efficient replacement windows - with wooden frames?

Go back to the council and plead poverty asking them what to do considering the windows need replacing but you cannot afford the required wooden frames e.g. is there any financial help available.

If you search the internet for advice on grants - beware - I found a site that looks like it might be a government site but charges £1.5 a minute for phone advice!!! I didn't call them but I bet many people get caught out 

Sorry I cannot be more help.