Article 4 Directions

Some forms of development can take place without the need for planning permission under permitted development rights granted nationally by Government.  

An Article 4 Direction is a tool available to local planning authorities to remove specific permitted development rights in defined circumstances. This means that a planning application is needed, allowing our planning team to assess proposals in more detail before a decision is made. It’s important to emphasise that an Article 4 Direction does not preclude development but means an application will be required.  

Why Article 4 Directions are used in the New Forest 

The New Forest National Park is a nationally protected landscape, valued for its unique habitats, wildlife, historic environment and the quality of life of its communities. Development that might be acceptable elsewhere in the country can have a greater impact here. 

Article 4 Directions are used in the New Forest to help ensure that: 

• Development is appropriate to the special character of the National Park 

• Impacts on landscapes, tranquillity and dark skies are carefully considered 

• Internationally protected habitats and wildlife are safeguarded 

• The amenity of local communities is protected 

What an Article 4 Direction does – and does not – do 

An Article 4 Direction: 

• Does not prevent development outright 

• Does not change national or local planning policy 

• Does not automatically mean an application will be refused 

Instead, it ensures that certain developments must be considered through the planning application process. This allows our planning team to assess each proposal on its individual merits, taking account of planning policies, environmental impacts and local circumstances, as well as the views of consultees 

What this means for landowners and applicants 

If an Article 4 Direction applies to your land or proposal, you may need to apply for planning permission for development that would otherwise not need it. We encourage early discussion with planning officers to help clarify requirements and ensure proposals are well designed and appropriate for the New Forest. 

By using Article 4 Directions carefully and proportionately, we help to balance the needs of landowners, communities and visitors while protecting the special qualities of the National Park for future generations. 

To find out whether your property or land could be affected by an Article 4 Direction, please see our interactive property map: Interactive property map – New Forest National Park 

Or contact our planning team at planning@newforestnpa.gov.uk