Class Q Permitted Development Changes - What You Need to Know
As of May 21, 2024, significant changes have been introduced to Class Q guidelines regarding converting agricultural buildings into dwellings without the need for planning permission. These changes are intended to offer greater flexibility for property owners, with new opportunities and some clarifications to the previous rules. However, transitional arrangements mean applications under the old Class Q guidelines can still be submitted until May 20, 2025.
Here are some of the key changes you may need to consider:
1. Broadening of Eligible Buildings
Previously, only agricultural buildings could be converted under Class Q. This rule has been relaxed. Buildings don’t necessarily need to be ‘agricultural’ but must be located on an ‘agricultural unit.’ This means that buildings used for equestrian or commercial storage, as well as mixed-use structures on agricultural land, may now qualify for conversion. However, buildings solely used for equestrian or commercial purposes remain excluded.
2. Updated Time Stamp
The new regulations apply to buildings that have been part of an agricultural unit since July 24, 2023. If a building is no longer part of such a unit, it must not have been used for any non-agricultural purpose since that date. This shift of the time stamp by over 10 years could significantly broaden the scope of eligible properties.
3. Dwelling Limits Simplified
Gone are the complicated ‘smaller’ and ‘larger’ dwelling floor limits. You can now create up to 10 dwellings with a combined maximum floor area of 1000m², with individual dwellings capped at 150m² each. While this expands the overall conversion potential, the previous ability to create larger dwellings (up to 465m²) is no longer possible.
4. Permitted Extensions
Class Q now allows single-storey extensions to the rear of the building, as long as they extend onto existing hardstanding that has been in place since July 24, 2023. These extensions can have a maximum depth and height of 4 metres but cannot extend beyond the side or front elevation.
5. External Alterations Allowed
Previously, external modifications were more restricted. Now, cladding and other operations deemed “reasonably necessary” are permitted, giving greater flexibility for improving the building’s external envelope during conversion.
6. Clarification on Access
A previously grey area regarding access has been clarified. Buildings without an existing ‘suitable access’ are not eligible for conversion under Class Q. This should help reduce confusion in planning applications.
7. Existing Restrictions Remain
Finally, it’s important to note that buildings located in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), National Parks, and other protected areas are still not eligible for Class Q development.
These updates provide exciting new opportunities for developers and property owners but also bring new challenges, particularly in terms of larger dwellings and access. The transitional period, which runs until May 20, 2025, offers a window of opportunity to apply under the old guidelines if necessary.
As always, it’s essential to carefully review the details and consult with professionals when planning a development. If you have any questions about your own Class Q conversion, get in touch today and the team will be happy to help.