Article 4 directions

Properties in some of Shropshire’s conservation areas are covered by Article 4 directions. Under The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) (Amendment) Order 2023 certain works may be undertaken without the need for planning permission, and are known as 'permitted development'. Within conservation areas permitted development is more restrictive, in particular for extensions and alterations to houses, and for other development within residential curtilages.

Not all works in a conservation area require consent, but their character is comprised of many building types, with a wide range of details. The cumulative effect of inappropriate changes to windows, doors, chimneys and roof materials can have a major adverse impact on the overall character of the area. For this reason, we may resolve to make additional Article 4 and Article 4(2) directions in the future to control minor alterations to buildings.

What does an Article 4 direction mean?

In making an Article 4 direction, certain permitted development rights are withdrawn for a prescribed range of works. These are works that materially affect some aspects of the external appearance of houses, such as windows, doors, roofs, and frontages. Householders in areas affected by an Article 4 direction need to apply to us for permission to undertake such work.

Take a look at our 'Historic environment FAQs' page for more information.