A conservation village with older buildings
Much of the village centre, with its older brick cottages and some thatched roofs, sits within a conservation area, which gives Southwick a noticeably different character to the newer estates found in nearby Fareham or Portsmouth.
Not part of Fareham despite the location
Although Southwick sits close to the Fareham and Portsmouth boundary, it actually falls within the City of Winchester district rather than Fareham Borough — worth knowing if you're checking planning rules for the area.
What that means for roof work
Thatched and older tiled roofs in the conservation area generally need a careful, gentle approach to cleaning, and any work beyond a straightforward wash may need sign-off from Winchester City Council given the conservation designation.
Frequently asked questions
Can thatched roofs be cleaned in the same way as tiled ones?+
No — thatch needs a different, specialist approach. Mention the roof type in your enquiry so you're matched with someone who covers it.
Which council covers Southwick?+
Southwick falls within the City of Winchester district, not Fareham Borough, despite being close to the Fareham boundary.
Nearby areas
Services
Useful local links
- Portsmouth City Council – Planning and Building Control — Planning and building control guidance for Portsmouth, including Tipner and the rest of Portsea Island.
- Havant Borough Council – Planning Services — Planning services covering Havant, Waterlooville, Emsworth, Purbrook, Langstone, Warblington and Hayling Island.
- Fareham Borough Council – Planning — Planning information for Fareham, Stubbington and Funtley.
- Winchester City Council – Do I Need Planning Permission — Guidance for Southwick, Denmead and North Boarhunt, which fall within the City of Winchester district.
- Gosport Borough Council – Planning — Planning information for Gosport.
- Health and Safety Executive – Working at Height — Official guidance on the safety rules that apply to any work at height, including roof work.