The predominant character of the Canonbury Conservation Area is residential, although there are shopping frontages on St. Paul's Road, Essex Road and Canonbury Place which provide local services and are an important contribution to the character of the area.

Generally the Council recognises that often the best use for a building is that which it was designed for and will seek to retain public houses, shops and workshops in appropriate uses which will not diminish their special interest. The removal of individual established uses within the Conservation Area will not be permitted where they contribute to the character of the area. Permission will not be granted for the over-intensification of residential use in conversation schemes.