Planning & Diversification

Class Q is still available but is becoming more difficult to achieve with Local Planning Authorities (LPA) taking a far more robust look at the suitability of structures for change of use. This follows the ruling in the Hibbitt case where the Judge confirmed that if the building is just a steel frame with only some lightweight cladding to two sides, then the amount of work required to build up the walls is deemed to be tantamount to building a new structure. So, care needs to be taking to assess the suitability of a structure before moving forward with an application.

It is better to be clear at the outset rather then proceeding with an application and wasting your money and there are certain things that you may be able to do to strengthen your case prior to presenting the drawings to the LPA. It is even more important to secure professional advice and we have the best team to provide that.

Class R is a permitted development right that allows for the change of use of an agricultural building to a commercial use such as light industrial, storage and distribution and a further range of specific business uses. It is a quick and easy way to secure a commercial change of use with no prior approval application required on buildings smaller that 150sqm. There is good demand for commercial units in rural areas with rents starting at £50/sqm.