Class Q (Agricultural to Residential) Policy Update
The Class Q Permitted Development rights are changing, coming into force on 21st May 2024.
We’ve become well versed with designing and preparing Class Q Applications over the years, having obtained permission for nearly 30 dwellings. The changes to the Class Q Permitted Development Rights are set out below: –
- Buildings will no longer have to be part of an established agricultural holding – providing it was, in the past, part of an established holding and its last use was agricultural, then it will now be eligible. This will allow buildings which have been sold off by farms to be eligible.
- Buildings that are still on agricultural holdings but have not been in agricultural uses may now be eligible. This could be a game changer for applications that have been refused in the past.
- The conversion can be extended by up to 4m (single storey) off the rear of the building providing that the extension will be sited on an existing hard surface, on or before 24th July 2023. This is a major development as previously Class Q only allowed the conversion of the existing structure.
- The overall dimensions of the building can be increased by up to 0.2m to allow for new replacement windows, doors, roofs, or exterior walls. Previously there could be no enlargement at all which resulted in compromised designs with regard to cladding and insulation.
- The overall limit for convertible floor area has increased to 1000m2.
- The number of dwellings permitted has been increased to 10.
- The maximum floor area per dwelling has reduced to 150m2. (Previously it was 465m2 for a ‘large dwelling’).
- Barns constructed under Full Planning permission prior to 24th July 2023 can be eligible, but if they were built under Part 6 Prior Approval, they need to be at least 10 years old. This potentially opens up more opportunities for Clients.
- The building must have suitable existing access to a public highway.
There is likely to be lots of opportunities for more barn conversions, do contact us if you would like our advice.