Article 4 Directions
An Article 4 Direction restricts the scope of permitted development rights either in relation to a particular area or site, or a particular type of development
About Article 4 Directions
An Article 4 Direction is made by the local planning authority. It restricts the scope of permitted development rights either in relation to a particular area or site, or a particular type of development anywhere in the authority's area. We have powers under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 to remove permitted development rights.
Article 4 Directions are used to remove national permitted development rights only in certain limited situations where it is necessary to protect local amenity or the well being of an area. An Article 4 Direction does not prevent the development to which it applies, but instead requires that planning permission is first obtained from us for that development.
Conservation areas
Some conservation areas within the borough are subject to Article 4(2) Directions. These directions limit some works to the exterior of dwellings that would otherwise qualify as permitted development. These directions are in place to protect heritage assets from works that would have an impact on, and harm their appearance and character.
Our power to make and confirm Article 4 Directions is under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015.
An Article 4 Direction does not stop developers from proceeding with development in the area to which it has been applied. It instead requires that planning permission is first obtained from the Council.
Conservation areas subject to Article 4 Directions
Below, we list the conservation areas currently subject to Article 4 Directions with a link to the specific limitations in each area.
- Dover House Estate
- Heaver Estate
- Latchmere Estate
- Putney Lower Common
- Roehampton Village
- Shaftesbury Park Estate
- Totterdown Fields Estate
- Wandsworth Common
It is important to check the relevant works which are subject to the Article 4 Direction for the particular conservation area. Some directions might only cover parts of the conservation area and might limit specific work.
It is also helpful to refer to the relevant Conservation Area Appraisal. They will guide what alterations and improvements are acceptable.
Change of use
Article 4 directions can also be used to restrict development where it is necessary to protect local amenity or the well being of an area. An Article 4 Direction does not prevent the development to which it applies, but instead requires that planning permission is first obtained from us for that development.
Below, we list the Article 4 Directions on specific changes of use across the borough.