About Article 4 Directions
Article 4 Directions allow the Council to ensure that conservation areas are suitably protected from extensive development.
Individually, many minor changes may appear insignificant. However, if they're added together they can have a significant impact upon the character and appearance of a conservation area. More information can be found in the guidance notes (PDF 138Kb).
The Article 4 Directions provide controls over minor development by removing certain 'permitted development' rights within conservation areas.
There are two different types of Directions:
Article 4 (1)
Affect all external parts of a property and not just those facing onto a highway, waterway or open space.
In Stockport, five conservation areas are covered by an Article 4 (1) Direction.
Article 4 (2)
Provide controls over minor development by removing certain 'permitted development' rights within conservation areas.
Generally, they only apply to dwellings and to external alterations to the elevations of properties fronting a highway, waterway or public open space.
Where a Direction is in place, planning permission is required for alterations to windows, doors, roofs and chimneys. This includes changes in materials such as UPVC windows.
Permission is also required for erecting porches, gates, walls and fences, the laying down of hardstanding and the demolition of walls around dwellings.
In Stockport 24 conservation areas are covered by an Article 4 (2) Direction.
If you live in a conservation area and want to see if your property is covered by an Article 4 Direction, please see our table of Article 4 Directions in Stockport. Alternatively, visit the Stockport Historic Environment Database maps below: