Areas of special local character are historically important areas that fail to meet the criteria for conservation area designation. The main difference between conservation areas and areas of special local character is that planning permission is necessary for partial or total demolition in conservation areas, as well as the removal of some permitted development rights.
Permitted development rights in areas of special local character are not affected, unless article 4 directions are made for individual locally listed buildings. However, its special interest will be a material consideration when planning applications which would result in the total or partial demolition, or major alteration, of any building within the area are being determined.
In 2023 the council consulted on and adopted a new type of local listing called an area of special local character for Waterloo Road and Bond Street in South Shore.