Decision details

The report will seek approval confirm (i.e. bring into force) the council’s Article 4 Direction to remove permitted development rights from Class E floorspace to residential from selected areas of designated town centres that fall outside of the CAZ.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the ‘confirmation’ of the Non-Immediate Direction under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 (as amended) to remove permitted development rights granted for the change of use from Class E (commercial, business and service uses) to Class C3 (dwellinghouses) within the areas shown in Appendix 1.

Reasons for Decision

The Article 4 Direction provides the opportunity for the council to use its planning powers by applying the full suite of City Plan, London Plan, and made neighbourhood plan policies, including those which aim to secure an appropriate balance of uses in designated town centres that fall outside of the CAZ, to maximise their offer in providing a range of shops, services, and employment opportunities to local residents. It will also help ensure that where commercial space is converted to residential, this includes provision for much needed affordable housing, contributes towards supporting infrastructure, and high standards of design and energy efficiency are secured.