Conservation areas

Conservation areas have special architectural or historic interest. There are 40 conservation areas in Edinburgh. The Council must protect and enhance these areas, and there are extra rules to control building work.  The aim is to preserve the special character of Edinburgh and ensure that any changes are of a high quality.

Maps of Edinburgh 's Conservation Areas.

Conservation Area Character Appraisals explain the special architectural and historic interest of Edinburgh's 40 conservation areas.

Conservation Area Management Plans include more information to help protect the special interest of conservation areas:

• Leith Conservation Area Management Plan
• Inverleith Conservation Area Management Plan 

Guidelines for Managing Edinburgh's Built Heritage The Guidelines for Managing Edinburgh's Built Heritage summarise existing policy and guidance, identify key aspects of good practice and establish broad principles for the conservation of the built heritage in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Built Heritage Strategy The focus of the Strategy is on the physical heritage and the characteristics which help to form Edinburgh's unique local distinctiveness and identity. They will assist in ensuring that the management of Edinburgh's built heritage is based on awareness and understanding of relevant issues.