Local planning regulations

Kensington Place

Photo by Peter Crowhurst

Article 4 directions

by Geoff Bennett, Senior Planning Officer, Brighton & Hove City Council

This information is of direct concern to all property owners in the North Laine area...

Local residents, visitors and shoppers love the distinctive character of the North Laine. Whilst it contains few grand architectural landmarks, its lively mix of houses and businesses are rich in architectural details. Timber sash windows and panelled doors, chimney pots, decorative cast iron railings and cornices and eaves brackets all help make the North Laine an attractive and interesting place. Sadly many buildings have lost some or all of these features over the years to the detriment of the area's architectural and historic interest.

The Council has powers to enforce

New controls were introduced by Brighton & Hove City Council in March 2005 to deal with this problem. These controls are known as 'Article 4(1) and Article 4(2) Directions'. Some new residents to the area may not be aware of them and there have been some incidences of original doors and windows being replaced by inappropriate modern ones without planning permission. In such situations the Council has powers to enforce the reinstatement of the building to its previous appearance. Before carrying out any alterations to your building, it is always advisable to check with the Council whether Planning Permission, Listed Building Consent or Building Regulation Approval are required for the works. The Council's website (see below) contains all the contact details and you can make an enquiry by email via the website.

What you can and can't do

The above powers bring under control certain minor alterations to single family dwelling houses which previously did not require planning permission. Alterations which now require planning permission include changes to windows and doors, the erection of a porch and any other alterations to the façades of buildings, including removal of cornices and other render mouldings, and the formation of hardstandings where they face onto a street or public open space. In addition the removal or erection of a chimney also requires planning permission, wherever it is on the building.   Also brought under control are the construction, alteration or demolition of the whole of or part of any boundary wall, fence, gate or railings, where these would front onto a highway or open space and the formation of a means of access to the highway. These controls apply to all buildings.

Where to find details?

Details of these controls can be viewed and downloaded from the Council's website (www.brighton-hove.gov.uk). Just click on" Your City", then "Conservation" and then "North Laine Article 4 Directions". Also available on the Council's website is a 'Conservation Areas Residents Guide', which gives guidance on what alterations are likely to be acceptable and what are not. If in doubt then contact the Planning Support Officer on 292509.

[Previously published in the 'North Laine Runner', No 180, May/June 2006]