A successful change of use from therapy centre to residential dwelling in Worthing 

A detailed look at how we secured planning permission for the change of use of a Therapy Centre to a residential dwelling in Worthing, including key planning considerations for change of use, common pitfalls, and how expert consultancy can strengthen your case. 

We are delighted to share the successful outcome of a recent change of use application in Worthing,  turning a Therapy Centre (Sui Generis) to residential use (C3). Not only will this approval restore a family home in an area with a clear need for housing, but it also marks the continuation of a trusted client relationship spanning many years. 

We first worked with the homeowner to secure planning permission for the Therapy Centre itself, helping them establish a thriving, much-loved business. When they decided to retire and restore the property to a family home, we were honoured to guide them through the next chapter. 

This project highlights the importance of planning strategy; not only understanding local policy but also its application; and the value in providing a careful assessment of the site and its surroundings; all underpinned by our commitment to ongoing client care. 

Does a change of use require planning permission? 

In most cases, yes. 

If you are proposing to change from one Use Class to another, you will typically need to submit a formal planning application to your local authority. Some changes of use fall under permitted development rights, but many do not.  It is also worth remembering that any external alterations almost always require planning permission. 

Because the rules can be complex, we always recommend seeking advice from an experienced planning consultant before progressing a change of use project. 

We can explore the options available to you, as sometimes a S73 application, Certificate of Lawfulness or one of the Prior Approval routes (e.g. Class MA, Class Q or Class R) may be a more appropriate depending on the requirements of your specific project.  

Key considerations when preparing a change of use application 

A strong planning justification is at the heart of any successful change of use application. Decision makers will want to understand: 

• Why the existing use is no longer viable or necessary, and 

• Why the proposed use is appropriate, policy-compliant and beneficial. 

In this case, the proposal involved replacing a valued Therapy Centre with a single dwelling, which required a thoughtful and evidence-based approach. 

Below are the key planning matters we successfully addressed. 

• Site context and sustainability 
  • The property sits comfortably within a residential area, with ample amenity space and excellent access to local services and public transport. Demonstrating that the proposed dwelling would integrate seamlessly with its surroundings was a key part of our assessment. 

• The principle of development 
  • Local policy places weight on protecting community facilities, so the loss of the Therapy Centre required careful justification.
  • We demonstrated that: 
    • The business would cease regardless due to the owner’s retirement; 
    • Similar therapy and wellbeing services were available nearby; 
    • The proposal would not harm the provision of community assets; 
    • There is an identified local need for housing, particularly for family dwellings. 
  • This balanced, evidence-based approach helped establish a strong case for the change of use. 

• Design and visual amenity 
  • No external alterations were proposed other than removing business signage, ensuring the building would read once again as a family home. This supported policy objectives around design, character and appearance. 

• Quality of the proposed accommodation 
  • Because the building was originally designed as a dwelling, the proposal comfortably met all space and amenity standards required for residential use. 

• Neighbouring amenity 
  • A change from a therapy business to a private home would reduce the intensity of activity on site. No external works were proposed, and domestic noise levels would be wholly consistent with the surrounding residential area. 

• Access, parking and sustainable travel 
  • We demonstrated that the site benefits from: 
    • Multiple public transport options within walking distance; 
    • More than adequate on-site parking; 
    • Good accessibility to services and facilities. 
  • This supported sustainability objectives and addressed transport policy requirements. 

• Flooding, drainage and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) 
  • Our review confirmed: 
    • No flooding or drainage constraints; 
    • The site met exemption thresholds for BNG under the relevant local and national policy. 

A new home for our client 

After supporting our client through multiple stages of this property’s lifecycle, from establishing a successful business to helping them prepare for retirement, we were thrilled to secure planning permission for the building’s return to residential use. 

This change of use brings a generously sized family home back into the local housing supply, in a sustainable location, and with a clear justification under planning policy. 

Common pitfalls when planning for a change of use 

We frequently advise clients who have encountered challenges or delays because of avoidable misunderstandings. Key pitfalls include: 

This often surprises applicants, particularly those looking to lease or purchase a property on tight timelines.

If in doubt, early professional advice can save time, cost and stress. At Plainview Planning, we have extensive experience in changes of use across all use classes.  Have a chat with our team about your project aspirations and we can provide useful, informed and helpful guidance to get your project started on the right footing.  

Working with Plainview Planning and McLoughlin Planning   

At Plainview Planning, we focus on helping homeowners, landowners and small developers unlock the potential of their sites. Our expertise lies in housing schemes of under 10 units, householder applications, and boutique commercial projects — where creative thinking and a deep understanding of planning policy make all the difference.   

Since joining forces with McLoughlin Planning in 2024, we’re proud to be part of a wider group of 14 planning professionals and support staff, combining our complementary skillsets to deliver ingenious, commercially-minded planning solutions across England and Wales.   

As part of the McLoughlin Planning Group, our shared objective is simple — to get results for our clients by providing high-quality planning consultancy. Their team of chartered town planners delivers strategic advice and planning solutions across a wide range of sectors, from strategic land promotions and multi-phase residential sites to commercial, aviation, and rural projects.   

For larger, strategic or complex schemes, please contact the McLoughlin Planning team. For householder projects, smaller developments, or boutique commercial sites, our Plainview Planning team would be delighted to assist.   

To speak to us, email enquiries@plainview.co.uk or call 01242 501003 — providing your site address and a brief summary of your project.   

Content correct at the time of publication. For the most up-to-date advice or to discuss your project, please contact our team directly.