Sefton Council is set to introduce a new planning rule that would require property owners to obtain full planning permission before converting shop units into residential flats in parts of Bootle. The move, approved at a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, aims to protect shopping parades and prevent the loss of essential local services.
Permitted Development Rights Under Scrutiny
Under current national planning rules, property owners can change the use of buildings from retail to residential without full planning permission. While they must seek approval for certain aspects, the council cannot consider the impact on shopping areas. Sefton's planning authority fears this will lead to the erosion of retail premises vital to the community.
Concerns Over Housing Quality
Derek McKenzie, Sefton's chief planning officer, voiced concerns at the Cabinet meeting about the quality of accommodation created through such conversions. “The quality of the accommodation [created] has been really, really poor. It’s often aimed at the most vulnerable people,” he said. He noted that converted units are often small terraces built for retail, not residential use, resulting in cramped rooms or spaces directly facing main roads with no outdoor area. “These are all things that currently slip through the net,” he added.
Article 4 Direction Proposed
To address this, McKenzie recommended introducing an Article 4 Direction, which would withdraw permitted development rights for Bootle shopping parades. This would require property owners to apply for full planning permission to turn shops into homes. However, he warned that the Secretary of State might not support the measure due to its scale, and there is a risk of a rush of applications before the order takes effect.
Supporting Local Communities
Cabinet member Phil Hart, responsible for planning and housing standards, said before the meeting: “We want to introduce this Article 4 Direction to protect shops and services, which are important for local communities and the jobs that go with them. This will help keep shopping streets busy and safe and support stronger, healthier communities. And it supports the wider Bootle regeneration programme.”
Next Steps
A public consultation will now be held to gather feedback from residents, businesses, and landlords. Any changes implemented will come with 12 months’ notice. This follows a similar Article 4 Direction introduced in February to control conversions of properties into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) across the entire borough.
