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New planning rules help protect Snowshill’s historic charm
Posted on: 26 September 2025
New planning rules for Snowshill will be introduced from Wednesday, 1 October 2025, to help preserve the unique character and heritage of this picturesque village.
These new rules, called an Article 4 Direction, aim to ensure that any alterations to buildings in the village are in keeping with its historic character and scenic setting within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Councillor Sarah Hands, Lead Member for Planning and Place Making, said: “Snowshill is one of the jewels of our borough, and these powers will help to protect its heritage, while still allowing thoughtful and appropriate development. We’re grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation and helped shape this decision.”
From Wednesday, 1 October, residents and property owners in Snowshill will need to apply for planning permission to make certain changes to their property, for the types of work as listed below.
Applications will follow the usual planning process, including advertisement and consultation, and standard fees will apply. The new planning rules mean that certain types of development, which would normally not require planning permission, will now need formal approval from the council.
This includes:
- Replacing exterior windows and doors
- Constructing porches
- Installing roof lights or changing roofing materials
- Creating or replacing hard surfaces in gardens
- Erecting gates, fences, or walls
- Painting the exterior of buildings (unless repainting in the same colour)
- Installing or altering microwave antennae or solar panels
The decision was made at a Full Council meeting on 29 July 2025, after residents and stakeholders were invited to share their views in a six-week consultation period between 27 January and 10 March 2025.
For more information, including the full schedule of affected development rights, visit tewkesbury.gov.uk/planning, or contact our Customer Services team on 01684 295010.
