Article 4(2) Directions

Even in conservation areas many alterations to houses are ‘permitted development’ and do not require planning permission. Consequently many small scale alterations to windows, doors, roofs, boundary walls etc do not require permission. Individually many of these changes are fairly minor but added together they begin to have a marked effect on the appearance of conservation areas. This resulted in a national problem where the character and appearance of many conservation areas was being compromised by the cumulative effect of a series of small changes.

Article 4(2) directions were introduced in 1995 to help address this issue. They generally only apply to the front elevation facing a highway. Work to rear elevations does not require permission and normal permitted development rights apply to rear extensions etc. Following a change in the interpretation of the law relating to demolition, work to boundary walls has been included in the more recent Directions. They also only apply to houses and not to flats, or other commercial properties.

After consultation with residents, we have prepared a number of Article 4(2) Directions, ranging from individual properties to complete conservation areas.

Once an Article 4(2) Direction has been made, planning permission becomes necessary for changes. However it does not affect::-

repairs or maintenance
like for like replacement
any alterations which have already taken place
painting or decoration (except of previously unpainted brickwork)

There is no fee for any application which is necessary only because of an Article 4(2) Direction.

What can be included?

The details of Article 4(2) Directions varies between different areas but includes all or some of the following:-

windows
doors
roofs
chimneys
architectural details
painting of unpainted properties
boundary walls, fences, railings
porches
hardstandings.

Which properties are included?

To find out if a property is included please refer to the 'List of properties in Article 4(2) Directions' which also gives the names of the individual Directions. If you wish to see a copy of the Direction which refers to your property ,please find the name from this List .Copies of the individual Directions are attached below.

A link to a list of Current Directions named 'List of Directions' can also be seen below. New Directions will be published on this website.

Directions currently in force

Below are links to the Direction currently in force. These are arranged by conservation area.

New and possible future Directions

Consultation has taken place about an Article 4(2) Direction in the recently designated St Davids Road Conservation Area (which also includes some properties in St Andrews Road and Margate Road). The consultation leaflet can be seen below.

The Article 4(2) Direction made in respect of properties in Bath Square, Broad Street, Tower Street and West Street in the Point area of Old Portsmouth was confirmed on 31 October following consideration of representations at the Cabinet Member for Planning Regeneration and Economic Development decision meeting on 26th September 2008.

An Article 4(2) Direction was made on 16th October 2008 covering properties in St Edward's Road and Yarborough Road. These are both mainly in the Castle Road Conservation Area and follow other Directions in that area.

For further information, please contact the Conservation & Design team, Planning Services, Portsmouth City Council, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AU. Phone: John Pike 02392 834303 Fax 02392 834660 or planning@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

The consultation leaflets are attached below.