Article 4 Directions

It can apply to a single house or a larger area.

An Article 4 Direction is only used for areas or buildings with significant historic quality or character.

Article 4 Directions give greater control over planning alterations. This is because they can remove 'permitted development' rights. As a result, small extensions and alterations in a conservation area may need planning permission. Examples include:

• erecting a porch
• replacing doors or windows
• painting the outside of a building

An Article 4 (2) Direction was approved in 2002. It applies to dwelling houses in Wisbech and Bowthorpe conservation areas. This means that planning permission is needed for:

• replacing a window (if fronting a highway, waterway or open space)
• making the property bigger
• changing a roof
• erecting a porch
• removing a stack
• works relating to access, gates, fences and walls