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Surviving Article 4: The ‘Test Valley’ Planning Guide
Surviving Article 4: The ‘Test Valley’ Planning Guide
By Mark Pearce • 8 Minute Read
- 🏛️ The “Tri-Council” Trap: Why rules in Andover (Test Valley) differ from Overton (Basingstoke).
- 👁️ The “Sightline” Rule: Why 90% of standard uPVC applications get rejected.
- ✅ The Solution: How “Heritage Flush Sash” windows satisfy strict conservation officers.
Based in Andover, we sit at the crossroads of three major planning authorities: Test Valley, Basingstoke & Deane, and Wiltshire Council. While they all want to preserve history, they each have their own quirks.
This guide cuts through the jargon to explain exactly what “Article 4” means for your home renovation.
1. The “Why”: What is an Article 4 Direction?
Usually, changing windows falls under “Permitted Development” (PD)—meaning you don’t need to ask for permission.
However, in Conservation Areas, the local council can issue an Article 4 Direction. This legal order strips away your Permitted Development rights to protect the “character” of the street.
It does NOT mean “You cannot change your windows.”
It simply means “You must ask us first.” You have to apply for planning permission, and the replacement must look virtually identical to the original.
Historic England explicitly states that change is allowed if it preserves significance. You can read their full Guidance on Traditional Windows here.
🚦 Interactive Planning Checker
Answer 3 questions to see where you stand:
1. Is your home a Listed Building (Grade I or II)?
2. Are you in a Conservation Area?
(e.g., Old Andover, Stockbridge High St, Winchester City)
3. Are the windows on the “Principal Elevation”?
(The front of the house facing the road)
🛑 Result: Listed Building Consent Required
Article 4 rules are not enough for you. You likely need Vacuum Glazing or Secondary Glazing.
Read Listed Building Guide →⚠️ Result: Planning Permission Likely Required
Because you are in a Conservation Area (Article 4) and changing the front of the house, you need to apply.
Good News: We can usually install “Heritage Flush Sash” windows here if approved.
✅ Result: Permitted Development
You likely do not need full planning permission. You can choose from our full range of Composite or uPVC styles.
2. Know Your Council: The “Tri-Council” Confusion
Because Andover is close to the borders, your postcode determines your rules. Here is how the local authorities generally differ:
(Andover, Stockbridge)
Strict on the “Principal Elevation” (front). Often allow flush timber-effect on rear, but may demand wood on front in villages like Wherwell.
(Overton, Whitchurch)
Specific directions for Overton. Increasingly open to “Residence 9” windows if mechanical joints replicate timber perfectly.
(Ludgershall, Salisbury)
Winchester City is strict. Wiltshire is lenient in rural spots but tough in town centres.
3. The Solution: “Flush Sash” Technology
Ten years ago, the council would say “Timber or nothing.” Today, technology has caught up. We install modern Timber-Alternative windows (like the Residence Collection or Deceuninck Heritage) that often satisfy planning officers.
The “Sightline Trap”
Why do planners reject standard uPVC? It’s about the Glass-to-Frame Ratio. Old timber windows have very slim frames. Standard uPVC has thick, chunky frames that reduce the glass area.
Our Heritage Flush Sash system uses a 100mm deep frame (matching 19th-century timber sizes) but with slim internals, replicating the delicate look of the original architecture.
*Always subject to specific council approval.
4. Success Stories
We have successfully navigated planning applications for replacement windows in conservation areas across the region. The key is detail. When we submit an application for you, we provide cross-section drawings showing that the sightlines match your original rotting timber frames.
Frequently Asked Questions
Often, no. Article 4 usually focuses on the “Principal Elevation” (what the public can see from the road). You might be allowed to put standard energy-efficient windows on the rear, and Heritage Flush Sash on the front. We can check your specific property deed to be sure.
Yes. We can act as your agent. We will draw up the specifications, take the photos, and submit the application to the Test Valley or Basingstoke planning portals on your behalf.
Yes, they are more expensive than standard white uPVC because of the mechanical joints and premium foils, but they are significantly cheaper than handmade timber windows and require zero painting.
Unsure if you are in a conservation area? We can tell you.
Mark Pearce is a highly experienced specialist in the double glazing industry, having built his knowledge from the ground up through hands-on experience in installation, manufacturing, sales, and business management. Beyond his role at KJM, Mark is a keen blogger, writer, and traveller, often sharing insights on the latest innovations in the home improvement industry.
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