Article 4 Direction to withdraw permitted development rights for change of use to C3 (Dwellinghouse) from a use falling within Class E (Commercial, business and service).
On February 7th 2023 the Council issued a non-immediate Article 4 Direction for HMOs in various commercial parades in Bootle and parts of Seaforth and Netherton. The Direction removes permitted development rights for the change of use from a use falling within Class E (Commercial, business and service) to a use falling within Class C3 (Dwellinghouse and flats).
The reasons for the Article 4 are to ensure that any conversions provide future residents with satisfactory living conditions and to ensure that local parades don’t lose too many important shops and services for local communities. It doesn’t necessarily mean that a planning application would be refused but will allow local residents and businesses to have their say on the proposed change of use.
The Article 4 Direction has been delayed coming into force whilst it is reviewed. As soon as the date it will come into force is known, this page will be updated with an amended Article 4 Direction and owners and occupants of affected properties will be notified.
| The Article 4 Direction |  (pdf 3.15MB) |
| The Case for the Article 4 | (pdf 1.58MB) |
| Cabinet Report | (pdf 266KB) |
| Cabinet Printed Minutes 03_11_2022 | (pdf 240KB) |