Unlocking the Potential of Property Change of Use
Many landlords and landowners aspire to maximise the full potential of their properties through change of use. However, understanding how to promote or utilise your land effectively can be challenging. In this article, I will provide advice on how to unlock the potential of your property change.
The UK Town and Planning Order
Under the UK Town and Planning Order, land is categorised into four main ‘use classes’:
- Class A: This includes shops, financial and professional services, restaurants and cafes, drinking establishments (e.g., wine bars, public houses), and hot food takeaways.
- Class B: Buildings falling under this category include offices, industrial facilities, and open-air storage facilities.
- Class C: This class includes hotels, residential institutions, dwelling houses, and houses in multiple occupations (HMOs).
- Class D: This class comprises non-residential institutions, assembly and leisure houses.
The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 is a statutory order that applies in Wales and England. It outlines the various types of ‘Use Classes’ and the permissions required for land or buildings to change their use. It also establishes the necessary permissions needed to alter the use of a building from one use to another within the same class.
As chartered, experienced architects and professional planners, we can help you navigate the UK planning system. It is possible to apply for a change of use without the necessary planning permission, using a system known as permitted development rights.
As a leading architectural and planning firm, we assist in fully utilising permitted development rights. If permitted development rights are not applicable, we are available to guide you through the processes of obtaining planning permission.
Securing Your Change of Use Planning Permission
Obtaining planning permission for a change of use can be a daunting task due to the cumbersome process involved. Planning permission is the approval issued by your local authority to commence a proposed building project, ensuring that developments occur in appropriate areas.
According to the National Planning Policy Framework, decisions on when and how planning permission should be issued are made in line with local planning policies. We have extensive experience working with London planning councils and understand the likely restrictions that may be imposed on your change of use application.
Designing Your Ideal Change of Use Layout
As experts in building and land permission planning, we have crafted a change of use design template to help you develop your design ideas. This template not only helps you create a design concept but also matches your requirements and taste. Whether you are converting from B1 to C3, B1 to D1, or C3 to C4, our templates cover these scenarios. We recognise that projects involving a change of use can be complex, but we manage the design process with your needs in mind.
Planning permission may not be required when the existing and proposed uses fall within the same ‘use class’, or if the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) allows for changes of use to another specified ‘use class’. This could apply to your property.
Conclusion
Once you secure planning permission for your change of use from the local authority, we proceed to the technical design and building phase, followed by monitoring the construction project and contract administration. This ensures that your design concept is transformed into reality.
Get Free Advice
Whether you’ve already purchased a commercial property or are searching for one, the best step is to talk to us as soon as possible. At Muse Architects, we provide complimentary consultations to help you understand the ins and outs of any potential project from the start. Our team offers expert advice on:
- Design
- Planning
- Building regulations
- Budgeting
- Programme
- Construction
If you’re looking for a helping hand, book your free consultation today.
About Muse
We are your Residential and Commercial Architects
At Muse Architects, we offer a wide range of local architectural services to clients in Manchester and beyond. From building control in Manchester to office design project management, our team of experienced architects has the skills and expertise to handle any project. Whether you’re looking for commercial building architects or residential architects near you, we’re here to help.
As local architects, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities of designing buildings in Manchester. We specialise in Manchester residential architect services and work closely with clients to create beautiful, functional spaces. Our 3D property visualisation services, including 3D visualisation for city planning and interior design, are designed to help you bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about how Muse Architects can help you achieve your architectural goals.
