An Article 4 direction removes specified permitted development rights in a defined area,
so that changes which would normally be automatic instead need a full planning application.
For HMOs this usually means removing the right to convert a home (use class C3) to a small
HMO (C4). The directions below for Westminster are sourced from
planning.data.gov.uk;
coverage varies by council, so always verify with the local planning authority before relying on it.
Other Article 4 directions in Westminster
1, 4, 8, 11, 12, 13 Relton Mews, SW7 since 1992
Article 4
1-27 Bridstow Place, W2 since 1974
Article 4
1-37 Bristol Gardens, W9 since 1981
Article 4
1-47 And 2-56 Abbey Gardens, NW8 since 1969
Article 4
168-208 Sussex Gardens, W2 since 1982
Article 4
6-10 Moncorvo Close, SW7 since 1984
Article 4
Article 4 Basement Development Permitted Rights Removed since 2016
We removed permitted development rights for basement development throughout the city. The Direction was confirmed on 4 July 2016, and the came into force on 31 July 2016
Article 4 Direction Class E To C3 In Central Activities Zone since 2022
We have removed permitted development rights for changes of use from Class E commercial, business and service uses to C3 dwelling houses in specified parts Westminster Central Activities Zone. This means that planning permission is required for the conversion of any Class E floorspace to residential in the areas cover…
Article 4 Direction Class E To C3 Out Central Activity Zone since 2021
We have removed permitted development rights for changes of use from Class E (commerical business and services uses) to C3 (dwellings houses) in specified parts of Westminster town centre hierarchy that faull outside of the Central Activities Zone. This means that planning permission is required for the conversion of …
Queens Park Estate since 1992
Article 4
The HMO angle in Westminster
Article 4 is only half the HMO picture — a scheme can be permitted-development-free and
still need a licence. See
HMO licensing in Westminster
for the mandatory licence threshold, any additional or selective schemes in our records, and
the statutory minimum room sizes, or the
full Westminster planning profile.
