The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 requires Local Planning Authorities to determine areas of special architectural or historic interest, "the character of appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance". These areas are called Conservation Areas.

Derby is a city of considerable historic interest and architectural merit. It has a range of streets and buildings which span many centuries. In an effort to conserve important elements of our built heritage, Derby City Council have designated some fifteen areas as Conservation Areas.

These include Conservation Areas centred on former village centres:

• Allestree Conservation Area  

• Darley Abbey Conservation Area  
• Mickleover Conservation Area   
• Spondon Conservation Area   
• Markeaton Conservation Area