Do I need planning permission for a change of use?
A 'material change of use' of a building or land is considered 'development' and requires planning permission, unless allowed under the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO). This occurs when the use changes between different Planning Use Classes as per the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended).
What constitutes a 'material change' is not explicitly defined in the legislation and is determined based on the specifics of each case. Common examples of change of use include: commercial to residential, agricultural to residential, office to education and industrial to leisure.
How do I obtain planning permission for a change of use?
No planning permission is required for changes within the same Use Class because these changes are not considered "material changes" and therefore do not constitute "development." For instance, Use Classes A1 (retail), A2 (financial and professional services), A3 (restaurants and cafes), B1 (business), parts of D1 (non-residential institutions), and D2 (assembly and leisure) have been consolidated into a single new Use Class: Class E (Commercial, Business, and Service). Therefore, no planning permission is needed to change between these classes. Please note any external changes which are required to change between these classes will likely need planning permission.
The General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) grants rights allowing changes of use between certain classes without needing planning permission, provided specific limitations and conditions are met. However, Prior Approval from the local authority might be required for some of these permitted development rights or a ‘Lawful Development Certificate’ might be necessary.
It should be noted that conditions from previous planning permissions or local restrictions, such as Article 4 Directions, can limit or remove these permitted development rights.
Other forms of change use, which are considered ‘development’, will require planning permission from your local planning authority.
What are the possibilities and benefits when carrying out a single storey extension?
Single-storey extensions provide a versatile way to expand your home without the complexities of multi-level construction. Here are some common uses and design ideas:
How can we help?
At G2 we have extensive experience with change of use, be it through planning applications, prior approval applications or Lawful Development Certificates. We can advise you on what is required to achieve a change of use and manage the whole process for you.
Conclusion
Single-storey extensions offer a fantastic opportunity to enhance your home’s living space and value. By understanding the planning and building regulations in the UK, you can navigate the process smoothly and create a functional, beautiful addition to your home. Whether you’re looking to expand your kitchen, add a new bedroom, or create a sunlit retreat, a single-storey extension can transform your living experience.
How can we help?
At G2 we have extensive experience with change of use, be it through planning applications, prior approval applications or Lawful Development Certificates. We can advise you on what is required to achieve a change of use and manage the whole process for you.