What is the process for change of use planning?
As expressed above, the first thing to consider when assessing change of use planning is whether planning permission is actually required. Dependent upon the existing use class and proposed use class change of use planning may not be required. Although it is worth remembering that even if planning permission is not required for change of use, planning permission may be required for any external alterations.
Once an assessment has been made and ideally consultation with a planning consultant undertaken an application can be made. The application for change of use planning is a relatively simple and straightforward process.
Sometimes, change of use planning does not required a planning application and instead can be dealt with via prior approval This option is adopted when the change of use is covered under permitted development, although the local planning authority need to confirm this. In some cases local planning authorities will have put in place an Article 4 Directive, which may apply in certain geographical locations within the local authorities remit. If this is in place then planning permission will be required irrelevant of permitted development rights.
A change of use planning application normally takes around eight weeks to be processed, although for more complex changes it can take longer and the local planning authority will advise accordingly.
Why should I apply for change of use planning?
First and foremost if you require change of use planning and do not obtain this then you will be in breach of planning control regarding the occupation of the property. The local planning authority may enforce against you. Protection against enforcement may be possible and is related to how long the premises have been used in their current use. The protections are different if occupied for four years or ten years and a planning consultant will be able to advise accordingly.
