Conservation and the historic environment
St Albans District has a rich historic environment, including historic buildings, landscapes and a wealth of archaeology.
The Council seeks to conserve the Districts distinctive character. Follow the links below for more information and guidance on how these important heritage assets can be preserved and enhanced.
Housing figures for St Albans District to be challenged
The Government is to be asked to urgently clarify how future housing need in St Albans District is to be calculated.

South West Herts’ vision proceeds to next stage
Residents are to be consulted on a detailed vision for further improving South West Hertfordshire.
Changes to planning application process
An important change to the process for planning applications has been agreed by St Albans City and District Council.

How St Albans District will be impacted by measures to protect the Chilterns Beechwoods
Measures taken to prevent the Chilterns Beechwoods suffering further damage may impact some planning applications in St Albans District.
Hemel Garden Communities appoints new Programme Director
Hemel Garden Communities has appointed Phillipa Zieba to the role of Programme Director. Phillipa brings with her a wealth of experience, from her previous role as Head
Improvements to planning application process
Improvements to the planning application system in St Albans District have been recommended for the benefit of all those involved.
Hertsmere Borough Council’s Local Plan “needs a rethink”
Plans to create a garden village to the south-east of St Albans District would be in breach of the Government’s Green Belt policy, Councillors have warned.
Plan to improve cycling and walking networks
A plan to create better cycling and walking routes in St Albans District is to be drawn up to encourage active travel.
Neighbourhood plan for St Stephen – give your views
Residents, businesses and community groups are being consulted about a neighbourhood plan for the parish of St Stephen.
Sandridge Neighbourhood Plan – referendum to be held
Residents in Sandridge are to vote in a referendum on a neighbourhood plan that will help shape the area’s future development.
Developers agreed to pay more than £400,000 towards community infrastructure last year
Property developers agreed last year to pay more than £400,000 towards the cost of community facilities in St Albans District.
Local Plan – call for potential development sites in St Albans District to be put forward
Landowners, builders and other interested groups are asked to put forward sites within St Albans District which might be suitable for development.
Draft Local Plan withdrawn
A draft Local Plan (LP) that identified land for development in St Albans District has been withdrawn.
‘Local Plan’ blueprint for development – inspectors censure Council on ‘duty to cooperate’
In latest developments, Planning Inspectors have concluded that St Albans City and District Council’s draft Local Plan has not met the ‘Duty to Cooperate’ with neighbouring authorities, in legal te

Consultation on neighbourhood plan for Sandridge
Residents, businesses and community groups are being consulted about a neighbourhood plan for the parish of Sandridge.
Support for Local Plan to move forward
Neighbouring local authorities and house builders are supporting St Albans City and District Council’s ambition of moving forward with its Local Plan (LP).