Altering your Property

Letchworth Garden City has a special place in the history of town planning as the world's first Garden City. It was established in 1903, based on the theories of Ebenezer Howard in his book 'Garden Cities of Tomorrow' , which outlined how new, ideal communities could be created by combining the best of town and country. Houses were constructed to harmonise with each other and architectural features were designed to add visual interest and variety.

The information in this section provides detailed advice to property owners in Letchworth, and include information on property maintenance, alterations and extensions. You will also find grant application details that will help ensure any changes to your Garden City property, whether old or new, are in harmony with its original design and character.

Part of the work of the Foundation includes protecting and improving the appearance of the town. Unlike the practice of many other towns, we often need to give consent for works that affect the external appearance of houses, whether freehold or leasehold. This is a separate and more extensive control than planning permission from the District Council, North Hertfordshire District Council.