Are Conservatories Going to Be Banned in the UK?

• 21 Oct 2025|
• News|
• Posted by Paul Davies

Key Takeaways:

• Conservatories are NOT banned in the UK — this was a myth from misunderstood regulations
• Existing homes can add conservatories under completely unchanged rules
• New builds can still have conservatories, with energy efficiency requirements
• Modern regulations improve quality, ensuring year-round comfort
• Professional installation ensures full compliance and complete peace of mind

No, conservatories are not banned in the UK in 2026, and there are no plans to ban them. The widespread confusion arose from media misreporting of building regulation updates introduced in June 2022, which introduced energy efficiency requirements for conservatories on new-build homes only. If you own an existing home in Cheltenham or anywhere in Gloucestershire, you can still add a beautiful conservatory to your property — nothing has changed for you.

At The Little Conservatory Company, we’ve been designing and installing stunning conservatories throughout Cheltenham and Gloucestershire for over two decades. Below we answer every question the ban rumour raised, and explain exactly where the confusion came from.

The Conservatory Ban: Your Questions Answered

Are conservatories banned in the UK?

No. Conservatories are not banned in the UK and there are no plans to ban them. The confusion stems from building regulation updates introduced in June 2022 (Part O and Part F), which introduced energy efficiency requirements for conservatories on new-build homes — not a ban on conservatories generally.

Are conservatories banned on new builds?

No, but new-build conservatories must comply with Part O (overheating prevention) and Part F (ventilation) regulations introduced in June 2022. This means they must prevent excessive solar gain — achieved through solar control glazing and proper ventilation — but they are absolutely still permitted and regularly installed on new-build properties.

Can you have a conservatory on a new build?

Yes. You can add a conservatory to a new-build home provided it meets Part O requirements, meaning it must not create unwanted solar gain. In practice, this is achieved through solar control glazing, adequate ventilation, and proper thermal separation from the main house — all of which are standard in any quality modern conservatory installation.

Why were conservatories “banned”? Where did the rumour start?

The ban rumour originated from media coverage of the June 2022 building regulation updates. Outlets including Good Morning Britain ran stories framing new energy efficiency requirements as a “ban” on conservatories. No ban was ever proposed — the regulations raised quality standards for new-build conservatories, they did not prohibit them. The rumour resurfaced in 2024 when further regulation refinements were introduced, again focused on sustainability rather than any restriction on building.

What is “unwanted solar gain”?

Unwanted solar gain is the excessive build-up of heat inside a room caused by sunlight passing through glass. In summer, a traditional conservatory with a polycarbonate or standard glass roof can reach uncomfortably high temperatures — making it unusable. Part O regulations require new-build conservatories to prevent this through high-performance solar control glazing, adequate ventilation systems, and considered design. The result is a conservatory that stays comfortable year-round rather than becoming a seasonal room.

Will conservatories be banned in the future?

There are no proposals to ban conservatories in the UK. The regulation updates in 2022 and 2024 both focused on improving energy efficiency and sustainability, not restricting conservatory ownership. The clear direction of regulation is towards better-quality, longer-lasting, more thermally efficient conservatories — not fewer of them.

Do existing conservatories need to be removed under the new rules?

Absolutely not. The 2022 and 2024 regulation updates apply only to new conservatories on homes built after June 2022. If your conservatory already exists, it is completely unaffected. There is no requirement to modify, upgrade, or remove an existing conservatory under any current or proposed UK legislation.

Where Did the Conservatory Ban Rumour Come From?

In June 2022, the UK government introduced updates to Building Regulations, specifically Part O (Overheating) and Part F (Ventilation). These changes aimed to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency in new homes, preventing overheating during summer heatwaves.

The confusion began when media outlets, including Good Morning Britain, ran stories suggesting conservatories were being “banned.” Headlines simplified complex regulations, and social media amplified these misconceptions rapidly.

The reality is straightforward: no ban was ever proposed. The regulations introduced energy efficiency requirements for conservatories on new-build properties only — ensuring they are comfortable and energy-efficient year-round. The rumour resurfaced in 2024 with further regulation refinements, but those changes focused on sustainability and improved standards, not bans.

What Are the Real Conservatory Regulations in 2026?

The key distinction is whether you have an existing home or a new-build home constructed after June 2022.

For New Build Homes (Post-June 2022)

New-build conservatories must comply with Part O and Part F regulations, but this doesn’t mean you can’t have one — it means any conservatory you install will be better quality.

Key requirements:

• Roof U-value must not exceed 0.15 W/m²K
• Must prevent “unwanted solar gain” (excessive heat buildup)
• Ventilation systems may be required if over 30m²
• Must be thermally separated from the main house
• Solar control glazing and ventilation strategies required

These requirements result in a better conservatory — comfortable in summer, warm in winter, and energy-efficient year-round.

For Existing Homes (The Good News)

If your home was built before June 2022, you can proceed with conservatory plans exactly as before. There are no new restrictions beyond standard planning rules.

Your conservatory is exempt from building regulations if it meets these conditions:

• Less than 30m² floor area
• Built at ground level
• Thermally separated from the house
• At least 75% of roof and 50% of walls are glazed

For homeowners in Cheltenham, Bishop’s Cleeve, Prestbury, and surrounding Gloucestershire areas, you have the green light to enhance your property with a conservatory.

Understanding the Key Terms

What Are U-Values?

U-values measure thermal performance — the lower the value, the better the insulation. The 0.15 W/m²K requirement for new builds ensures exceptional thermal performance, keeping your conservatory comfortable year-round while reducing energy bills.

What Is “Unwanted Solar Gain”?

Unwanted solar gain is excessive heat buildup when sunlight streams through glazing. Traditional conservatories could become unbearably hot in summer. New regulations prevent this through high-performance solar control glazing, adequate ventilation systems, and proper design consideration from the outset.

The Benefits of Modern Conservatory Regulations

Year-Round Comfort

Modern conservatories built to current standards are designed for all-season use. Improved insulation, ventilation, and solar control glazing mean genuine living space throughout the year — not just a room you use in April.

Lower Energy Bills

Better insulation means less heat loss and lower heating costs. Solar control glazing reduces cooling needs in summer, often helping regulate your entire home’s temperature more effectively.

Increased Property Value

A well-designed conservatory can add 5–10% to property value. Modern, energy-efficient conservatories are genuine selling points that appeal to today’s eco-conscious buyers.

Better Quality Construction

The 2024 regulation updates include a 10-year durability requirement (up from 4 years), guaranteeing higher quality materials and construction across the industry — protecting your investment for longer.

Your Options in 2026

For Existing Homes

• Proceed as normal under standard permitted development exemption criteria
• Work with experienced installers familiar with local planning in Gloucestershire
• Consider modern materials for enhanced comfort and longevity
• Most conservatories qualify as permitted development with no planning application needed

For New Builds

Solutions that comfortably meet Part O requirements include:

• High-performance solar control glazing reflecting up to 80% of heat
• Efficient ventilation systems, from opening windows to full MVHR systems
• Solid insulated roofs with integrated roof lanterns
• Hybrid roof designs combining solid panels with glazed sections

Modern Alternatives

Orangeries: A more solid structure with excellent thermal performance and traditional aesthetics, particularly popular in Cheltenham’s period properties.

Garden Rooms: Fully insulated spaces with maximum thermal efficiency for true year-round use, regardless of the season.

Solid Roof Conservatories: Combine the traditional conservatory feel with extension-level thermal performance — increasingly popular across Gloucestershire.

We design and install all of these options throughout Cheltenham and Gloucestershire, helping you choose the perfect solution for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.

Planning Permission Guide

Most conservatories don’t require planning permission if they meet permitted development criteria:

• Don’t extend beyond the rear wall by more than 4m (detached) or 3m (other houses)
• Single-storey with a maximum 3m eaves height
• Maximum 4m overall height
• Don’t cover more than 50% of the garden area

Planning permission is required for:

• Conservation areas or listed buildings
• Front or side extensions facing highways
• Extensions exceeding the permitted development size limits

Many Cheltenham properties sit within conservation areas, but we have extensive experience working within these constraints and can guide you through every step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you still build a conservatory in 2026?

Yes, absolutely. Conservatories aren’t banned. Existing homes follow completely unchanged processes, while new builds must meet energy efficiency standards — easily achieved with modern design and materials.

What happens if I don’t comply with regulations?

Non-compliance on new builds could result in enforcement action from your local authority. This is easily avoided by working with experienced professionals who understand current requirements and handle compliance on your behalf.

Do conservatories add value to your home?

Yes. Well-designed conservatories typically add 5–10% to property value, often exceeding installation costs. The key factors are quality construction, energy efficiency, and how well the conservatory integrates aesthetically with the existing property.

Can I add a conservatory to my Cheltenham home?

Yes, in most cases. While some Cheltenham properties are listed or in conservation areas that require planning permission, most can accommodate a conservatory under permitted development rights. We check this for every project before work begins.

How long does conservatory installation take?

Most installations take 2–4 weeks from start to finish, depending on size and complexity. We provide clear timelines from the outset and keep you fully informed throughout the process.

What’s the difference between Part O and Part F?

Part O prevents overheating through solar gain control and ventilation requirements. Part F addresses overall building ventilation and air quality. Both work together to ensure comfortable, healthy living spaces — and both only apply to new-build properties, not existing homes.

Ready to Add a Conservatory to Your Cheltenham Home?

At The Little Conservatory Company, we’ve built our reputation on expertise, quality craftsmanship, and outstanding customer service over 20+ years serving Cheltenham and Gloucestershire. Our friendly team makes the whole process smooth and stress-free from first call to final handover.

We don’t do hard sales — our experience speaks for itself through five-star Google reviews from satisfied customers across Cheltenham, Bishop’s Cleeve, Prestbury, and throughout Gloucestershire.

Whether you want a traditional conservatory, sophisticated orangery, or versatile garden room, we’ll guide you through every step:

• Free consultation to discuss your vision and requirements
• Expert design tailored to your home and lifestyle
• Clear guidance on regulations and planning permission
• Quality installation using premium materials
• Full project management from design to completion
• Comprehensive guarantees and ongoing support

Contact The Little Conservatory Company today for your free consultation. With decades of experience and a genuine passion for creating beautiful spaces, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.