Article 4 Directions and the Historic Environment

Extensions and alterations which are normally permitted are controlled in designated areas by what is known as an Article 4 Direction. This means that planning permission must be obtained to make any changes to a property especially if it will be seen from the street, public footpath or public open spaces.

Love Lane, part of Mushroom Green and The Leasowes Conservation Areas are all covered by Article 4 Directions. Within these boundaries planning permission must be obtained to:

build an extension of any size including a porch, conservatory or garage, or any other structure such as a garden shed, oil tank, outbuilding or swimming pool;
make any alteration to the roof - this includes the slates or tiles and putting in a dormer window or rooflight;
lay any new paved surface - this includes a patio, a driveway or a paved area in your front garden to park your car;
remove, replace or alter windows and doors. - planning permission is also needed to put a new window or door opening into an existing wall;
build, alter or remove gates, fences, walls or other types of boundary;
paint the woodwork of the house in a non-traditional colour - this includes windows, doors and door frames;
paint the render or brickwork on walls;
fix a satellite dish to your house - this is dependant on the size of the dish and where it is placed on the building.

An Article 4 Direction does not prevent you from altering or repairing your home, but it does allow the Council to give you advice about the best methods, designs and building materials to use. The aim is to preserve the special character of your home and neighbourhood.

A guidance note for Mushroom Green Conservation Area (PGN22) has been approved by Committee and can be downloaded by selecting the link below.

Please note that no planning fee will be required for any application required as a result of the Article 4 Direction.

Penalties for Unauthorized Work

The Article 4 Direction is legally binding and you must apply for planning permission for any of the work listed above. The Council can take enforcement action if you carry out alterations without permission. This could require you to put your home back to its original condition. Failure to comply with an Enforcement Notice can lead to prosecution. The penalty can be a fine up to £20, 000.

Please contact the Historic Environment Team if you have any further enquiries about Article 4 Directions in conservation areas.