Some alterations can be made to the outside of homes without planning permission. These alterations are known as 'permitted development' and include such things as changing windows and doors and demolishing boundary walls. Over time these changes can gradually change the special character of a conservation area.
'Permitted development rights' can be taken away under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995. The removal of permitted development rights using an Article 4 Direction means that planning permission must be sought and granted before certain alterations can be made or works carried out. There is no fee for planning applications for alterations which would be permitted development if the Article 4 Direction had not been made. (There are other things which need planning permission in a conservation area, such as putting up satellite dish on the front of your house, which are not permitted development, and a fee is payable for these planning applications).
By making an Article 4 Direction the borough council can try to stop traditional details being lost and encourage the replacement of inappropriate features with those more suitable to the age and style of the property and the surrounding area.
