Conservation & Heritage Issue 49 October 2025 - Flipbook - Page 102
• Ecological impact - Disturbing protected habitats
can be a major sticking point. Proposals that
don’t consider biodiversity or do not include
mitigation measures are likely to trigger
environmental objections.
• Policy and conservation conflicts - Applications that
go against the local authority’s development plan or
conservation policies such as those protecting Area
of Outstanding Natural Beauty landscapes or listed
buildings are almost certain to be refused, regardless
of the design quality.
Designed for sensitivity:
The Conservation Rooflight
The Rooflight Co have spent decades refining their
products to help homeowners and professionals navigate
these exact challenges. The original Conservation
Rooflight was created specifically to meet the aesthetic
and regulatory demands of protected settings.
Inspired by Victorian cast iron roof windows, it
combines authentic heritage detailing with the highest
modern performance standards including compliance
with current building regulations and full European
conformity marking. Selected by English Heritage, the
National Trust, and at historic sites such as Blenheim
Palace, the Conservation Rooflight has been chosen
for some of the UK’s most prestigious buildings and
private residences.
Its low-profile design and carefully considered
proportions help keep the architectural integrity
of traditional properties, while offering a reliable
and elegant solution for bringing in natural light
without disrupting rooflines or raising concerns with
conservation officers.
Sustainability that supports your application
As a B Corp, The Rooflight Co designs with a clear
purpose beyond performance and aesthetics. Each
Conservation Rooflight is manufactured with
sustainability in mind, from sourcing and materials to
production processes and lifecycle durability.
extension in Kew, designed by Simon Merrony
Architects. The project responds beautifully to the
challenge of balancing contemporary living with
heritage context - a key consideration in conservation
areas and AONBs. Featuring bespoke Conservation
Plateau Rooflights set into distinctive sawtooth glazing,
the design maximises natural light while keeping a
sympathetic roofline and carefully chosen materials.
The result is a sophisticated interpretation of 1930s
industrial architecture that respects the character of the
original building and its surroundings, exactly the kind
of approach planning officers look for when assessing
visual impact, scale, and architectural sensitivity. This
case proves how intelligent rooflight specification can
enhance both design and planning outcomes.
Bringing your vision to life – Beautifully,
responsibly and successfully
Navigating planning permission in environmentally
sensitive areas requires a careful balance of design,
respect for local character, and sustainable choices.
Well-considered rooflight solutions can help meet these
challenges — enhancing natural light while preserving the
unique beauty and heritage of a home.
Thoughtful design decisions can play a vital role in
strengthening planning applications and aligning with
the values of both planners and communities. For
projects in protected areas, carefully considered rooflight
options can achieve a balance between authenticity,
sustainability, and planning-friendly design - ensuring
heritage settings remain respected while enabling
modern needs.
By Caroline Cowdrey, Sales Manager at The Rooflight Co.
For more information on The Conservation Rooflight
from The Rooflight Co visit www.therooflightco.com
Contact: Tel: 01993 833155 | hello@therooflightco.com
Choosing products from a certified sustainable
manufacturer like The Rooflight Co can enhance the
credibility of your planning submission, especially when
working in environmentally sensitive locations where
sustainable development is a priority. Demonstrating
a thoughtful, environmentally conscious approach,
down to the product level, shows alignment with the
long-term values of both the local community and
planning authority.
Private residence in Kew
A great example of how thoughtful design can support
planning approval in sensitive settings is this elegant
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