Article 4 directions

In Liverpool we have additional planning controls introduced under article 4 directions, which cover most of the city’s conservation areas.

If you live in a conservation area, this means that any works that change the external appearance of a building, or affects its grounds may require planning permission.

For householders, this includes alterations to:

• the roof including roof coverings
• chimneys
• dormers and roof lights
• windows and doors
• external cladding
• gates
• hard-sanding and sometimes alterations to the boundary walls.

In the Kensington Fields, Knotty Ash, Toxteth Park and the Avenues conservation areas, the Article 4 directions only apply to elevations that front a highway but all other Article 4 directions in Liverpool apply to all elevations.

In deciding whether to grant planning permission, we have a duty to protect the city’s heritage and all proposals are considered with this in mind.

For further guidance on the need for planning permission as a result of national planning controls or an Article 4 direction, please contact us.