Changes to permitted development rights have been announced, notably Class Q (formerly agricultural buildings to dwellinghouses, now buildings on established agricultural units to dwellinghouses) and Class R (agricultural buildings to commercial use).
From the 21st May, Class Q now allows up to ten dwellings (from five), and a maximum floorspace of 1000 square metres (from 865 square metres). The size of any dwelling proposed however has been limited to 150 square metres. There is also greater emphasis on the requirement for the building to be part of an established agricultural unit, rather than the use of the building itself, meaning non-agricultural buildings may benefit. The updated right allows for buildings on existing agricultural units, as well as those on sites where the agricultural unit has ceased, subject to relevant criteria. It is worth noting a transitional period where existing arrangements for Class Q can still be used until 21st May 2025.
Class R now allows for 1000 square metres of floorspace changing use from agricultural to commercial. In addition, permitted development rights for new agricultural buildings have also been expanded to allow for buildings up to 1500 square metres.
If you have any queries or wish to discuss the new changes, please do not hesitate to contact us. For further information visit our information sheets on the relevant permitted development rights below.
