Right to a view
There is no right to a view in English law, as this would too broadly restrict the ability of other people to develop land. This position dates back to the 1610 Aldred case which held that rights had to be sufficiently definite to be enforceable.
It is possible however to enter into a contract or licence with another land owner to agree that a view will not be obstructed, but a payment would be chargeable, which may be a single payment or regular payments, and the agreement would only be between the parties to the contract, it would not pass on after sale of the land unless the agreement obliged the owners to ensure there was a similar agreement with subsequent owners.
Alternatively, the parties could agree a restrictive covenant, obliging one party not to obstruct the view of the other. This would pass on with the sale of the land, but again would be likely to require payment. Restrictive covenants can be removed by application to the Lands Tribunal (now the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber)), but only if the reason for the restrictive covenant no longer exists.
In the 2009 case of Dennis v Davies, properties were sold on the basis that they had a river view. A restrictive covenant required that owners would not cause nuisance or annoyance to their neighbours. It was held that a proposed extension that would block the view of the river would cause annoyance, and so the works were prevented.
In addition, certain views in London are protected. The London View Management Framework helps preserve London's character and built heritage by setting out policies for managing the impact of developments on key panoramas, river prospects and townscape views. Proposed developments within a designated view should seek to make a positive contribution, giving consideration to their impact on the foreground, middle ground and background of views.
See London View Management Framework for more information.
There are also certain rights to light. Rights to light generally become an issue when a new development, or proposed development affects an established access to light of an adjoining property. Rights to light also apply to obstructions caused by trees, hedges and so on, but there are no rights to light for open ground.
See Rights to light for more information.
Because of these complexities, it is important when considering purchasing a land or property, to carefully consider what rights or restrictions apply, both in terms of protecting a view or being prevented from making changes.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Adequate view out.
- BREEAM Visual comfort View out.
- Easements.
- Light obstruction notice.
- Light pollution.
- London View Management Framework.
- Nuisance.
- Restrictive covenant.
- Rights of way.
- Rights to light.
- Strategic view.
- Value in the view: conserving historic urban views.
- View.
- Zone of theoretical visibility.
Featured articles and news
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.