Conservation areas and Article 4 Directions
Check if you live in a conservation area
Conservation areas are places of special architectural or historic interest where it is desirable to preserve or enhance their character and appearance.
There are currently 128 conservation areas in Shropshire, designated because of their historic, architectural, archaeological, landscape, or townscape significance.
Conservation areas are designated under Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.
What does conservation area designation mean?
Living in a conservation area does not prevent change, but it does mean that greater care is needed to ensure development preserves or enhances the area's special character.
Within conservation areas:
- Some permitted development rights may be restricted: guidance on permitted development rights
- Demolition of buildings, structures, or walls may require planning permission: relevant demolition in a conservation area
- Additional controls may apply to advertisements, signs, and shopfronts further guidance is available on the Planning Portal
- Trees are protected. You must normally give Shropshire Council six weeks' notice before carrying out works to a tree in a conservation area, unless it is already protected by a Tree Preservation Order. Read our advice on carrying out work to protected trees
If you are considering works to a property in a conservation area, we strongly recommend seeking advice before starting work.
Article 4 Directions
Check if your property is covered by an Article 4 Direction
Some properties within conservation areas are covered by an Article 4 Direction.
Article 4 Directions remove certain permitted development rights, meaning planning permission may be required for works that would otherwise not need consent. They help protect the features that contribute to the character and appearance of conservation areas.
Commonly controlled works include:
- Replacement of windows and doors
- Alterations to roofs and chimneys
- Changes to external materials and finishes
- Construction or alteration of porches
- Alterations to walls, gates, railings, and fences
- Other works that affect the external appearance of a property
I live in a property covered by an Article 4 Direction. Can I replace my windows?
If your property is subject to an Article 4(2) Direction, you will normally need planning permission to replace windows or external doors on elevations visible from the public realm.
Replacement windows should be appropriate to the age and character of the building and conservation area. Timber windows that match the original design are generally preferred. uPVC windows are unlikely to be supported where they would harm the character or appearance of the conservation area.
Double-glazed timber windows and other energy-efficiency improvements may be acceptable where they preserve the building's historic character.
If your property is subject to an Article 4 Direction, you should seek advice before undertaking any work.
For further information, please see our Historic Environment FAQs page.
Conservation Area Appraisals
Conservation Area Appraisals explain the special interest and significance of individual conservation areas and identify the features that contribute to their character and appearance.