Permitted Development Opportunities For Existing Buildings
Changes to permitted development rights took effect nationally from 21 May 2024. The the change relate to the change of use of agricultural buildings to residential (Class Q) and commercial (Class R).
CLASS Q
Class Q rights were first introduced in 2014 and have been a valuable tool for landowners and farmers to convert existing modern or traditional agricultural buildings to residential use without needing to apply for full planning permission.
Class Q permitted development can now be applied to buildings which are no longer part of an established agricultural unit. This gives landowners greater opportunities to convert existing agricultural buildings.
One of the important changes relates to buildings which were sited on or before 24 July 2023 will now be eligible for Class Q, providing they meet the other class q rules. Any buildings sited after 24 July 2023 will not be eligible for Class Q until 10 years has passed.
Landowners will now be allowed to create up to ten dwellings with a maximum cumulative floor space of 1,000 m2 which is an increase from the previous maximum floor space of 865 m2.
The new rules include a reduction in the maximum floor space of any one property. Previously, it had been possible to have one property with a floor space of up to 465 m2, but a maximum limit of 150m2 has been introduced for any of the houses created.
The changes include the allowance for a single-storey rear extension of up to 4m to be added to a building as part of the change of use.
You can still apply under the old Class Q guidelines to until the end of 20 May 2025.
Class Q developments must be completed within three years of prior approval.
The conversion of a building without an existing suitable access to a public highway is also prohibited.
CLASS R
Class R is the PD right which allows landowners to convert buildings from agricultural to commercial use. In addition to being able to convert to general industrial, storage, distribution, hotel and commercial use, property owners can now diversify into sport and recreational uses.
The maximum floorspace has increased from 500 m2 to 1,000 m2, but there are no transitional arrangements for Class R.
Class R developments must begin within three years of gaining prior approval.
