Local planning authorities can create Article 4 directions to remove permitted development rights to control development within their area. Bedford Borough Council currently has two Article 4 directions.
HMO Article 4
The HMO Article 4 has been in force since November 2020. It was created to remove permitted development rights and require planning applications to be submitted, to manage the impact of the change of use of dwelling houses to small HMOs (ie where from three to six unrelated people share basic amenities such as kitchen, lounge or bathroom) in the urban areas of Bedford and Kempston. Larger HMOs for more than six occupants have always required planning permission wherever they are within Bedford Borough Council’s area.
Find out more about HMOs and the legislation
- Copy of final order (PDF)
- Map of article 4 area (PDF)
Stewartby Conservation Area Article 4
The Stewartby Conservation Area Article 4 was created in 1987 to protect parts of Stewartby as detailed in the direction below, removing permitted development rights and requiring planning applications to be submitted. The area this cover can be found in the Direction and on our map search, details are provided below.
Applying for permission and using the map search
To submit an application please go to our Make a planning application section and to find out more about applying see out Planning application forms - Overview page.
Please use our online mapping system to view the extent of the Article 4s and search specific addresses or locations.
Go to our search plans pages and use the search maps button which has a further link below for assistance with using the map.