On 28th February 2019, Luton Borough Council introduced an Article 4 Direction restricting permitted development rights, for the conversion of office to residential accommodation in a number of locations across the Borough.

An article published by the Planning Resource on March 4th 2019 highlighted which local authorities have had the most decisions overturned at appeal and are over the ‘special measures’ threshold of 10%.

For a long time, development in rural settlements has generally been fiercely avoided by Councils.

A revised NPPF was published on 19 February 2019, which details changes to planning policy and guidance.

Permission had previously been granted for a two storey extension and conversion of existing house to provide 4 self contained apartments.