Article 4 Directions

Article 4 Directions are one of the tools available to local planning authorities which allow them to respond to the particular needs of their areas.

They provide local planning authorities with the ability to restrict ‘permitted development’ rights which would otherwise apply by virtue of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 (“the GPDO”) where it is considered expedient to do so.

An Article 4 Direction does not stop development. Instead, it requires planning permission to be obtained from the local planning authority so the planning impacts of the development can be considered before a decision is taken on whether it can proceed. 

Article 4 (1) or (2) direction gives extra protection to certain conservation areas. They help to protect the character and appearance of the area by safeguarding features that make a positive contribution. More information on areas covered by Article 4 in Coventry can be found at  Article 4 directions .

Not all conservation areas have an Article 4 Direction, but where they do exist you will need to get planning permission before you carry out the works they control. This might relate to replacement windows, the demolition of front garden walls, roof extensions, or other alterations.

Article 4 directions may be used to ensure planning applications are made for the demolition of a non-designated heritage asset such as a locally listed building outside of a conservation area, by removing the demolition rights under Schedule 2, Part 11 of the GPDO.  

In accordance with government legislation the local planning authority must as soon as practicable after a direction has been confirmed (a)give notice of their confirmation; and (b)send a copy of the direction as confirmed to the Secretary of State.