Timber - PVC - Aluminium - Windows, Doors & Conservatories in Hampshire
Surviving Article 4: The ‘Test Valley’ Planning Guide
Surviving Article 4: The ‘Test Valley’ Planning Guide
By Mark Pearce • 8 Minute Read • Updated Dec 2025
📌 Key Takeaways
- 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 “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.
We have a specific guide for your property type:
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.
| Feature | Standard uPVC (Rejected) | Heritage Flush Sash (Accepted*) |
|---|---|---|
| Joints | Welded (Diagonal line) | Mechanical (Vertical join like wood) |
| Finish | Shiny White Plastic | Woodgrain Foil (Matte) |
| Profile Depth | 70mm | 100mm (Matches 19th Century timber) |
| Opening | Casement sticks out | Sits “Flush” within the frame |
*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
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.
- 2026 Design Trends: The 4 Window & Door Styles Defining the Year - 19 December 2025
- The 2026 Glazing Outlook” – High-level summary of the pivot to growth. - 9 December 2025
- Industry News: The Future Homes Standard 2025 & What It Means for Your Windows - 1 December 2025
