The Government has recently announced an extension to the existing Permitted Development Rights (Class Q) for the conversion of agricultural buildings to residential use. The previous rights allowed conversion of 450sqm to up to three dwellings. From 6th April 2018 this increased to allow up to 5 dwellings to be created.
Subject to criteria on protecting the environment and amenity, the new Class Q Rights will allow for:
- up to 3 larger homes within a maximum of 465sqm; or
- up to 5 smaller homes each no larger than 100sqm; or
- a mix of both, with a total of no more than 5 homes, of which no more than 3 may be larger homes. This could result in a combination of 1 larger home totaling 465 sq. m plus 4 smaller homes at 100 sq. m each giving a total maximum development of 865 sq.
In addition, Permitted Development Rights for new Agricultural Buildings will increase from 465sq m to 1000sq m, giving substantially greater scope for securing buildings under the Prior Notification route rather than via a more expensive and onerous Full Planning Application. Draft amendments have also been announced to the National Planning Policy Framework ‘NPPF’ which continues to focus on housing supply, including that in rural areas with the potential for sub-division of existing dwellings and the delivery of rural affordable housing enabled by open market dwellings. There continues to be strong support for proposals which support agricultural growth and farm diversification.
All of these announcements underline the Government’s commitment to delivering housing, particularly in rural areas, and allowing greater flexibility with modern farming practices. Whilst some buildings may not meet the Class Q criteria because they are Listed, in a Conservation Area or National Park, there remains support for conversions through the full planning application route, where we continue to be successful securing permissions for clients.
The Planning Team at Fisher German can assist in maximising and delivering the potential of underused or redundant assets. We are a leading national team of property consultants, including planning, design, building and development sales experts. If you would like assistance in unlocking planning potential or need clear strategy advice on farming matters, please contact us.
For further information please contact Kay Davies email
