Article 4 Directions

Current consultation: Article 4 Direction in Wisbech

We're seeking views on the introduction of an Article 4 Direction to help regulate the creation of new small HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupation) in Wisbech.

Find out more and have your say.

Views are welcomed by 11.59pm on 21 March, 2025. 

About Article 4 Directions

Article 4 Directions can apply to a single house or a larger area.

They are only used for areas or buildings with significant historic quality or character.

Article 4 Directions give greater control over planning alterations. This is because they can remove 'permitted development' rights. As a result, small extensions and alterations in a conservation area may need planning permission. Examples include:

• erecting a porch
• replacing doors or windows
• painting the outside of a building

An Article 4 (2) Direction was approved in 2002 applying to dwelling houses in Wisbech and Bowthorpe conservation areas. This means that planning permission is needed for:

• replacing a window (if fronting a highway, waterway or open space)
• making the property bigger
• changing a roof
• erecting a porch
• removing a stack
• works relating to access, gates, fences and walls

New Article 4 Direction approval

On 22 March 2022, a new Article 4 Direction was approved for Land at How Fen, Rear of Meadow Farm, Horseway near Chatteris. This means that a grant of planning permission must be obtained for development of the type to which it applies. 

• Cabinet approval: Chatteris Article 4 Direction [Item 7]
• Article 4 Direction: How Fen, Horseway, Chatteris (PDF, 79 KB)
• Location Plan: Land at How Fen Horseway Near Chatteris (PDF, 431 KB)
• Site Plan: Land at How Fen Horseway Near Chatteris (PDF, 111 KB)

Following public consultation, the Article 4 Direction was approved at the Cabinet meeting on 5 September 2022. View meeting minutes.