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Change of Use
Need planning support for a Change of Use? At Plainview Planning, we provide expert advice on permitted development, prior approval, and full planning applications—helping unlock new uses for land and property across England.
Changing the use of a building or site can unlock new opportunities, but it also brings planning challenges. Whether you’re repurposing a commercial unit, converting a barn, or transforming a property into residential use, our team has extensive experience in securing change of use consents across England.
We are well-versed in Change of Use, Dual Uses, Permitted Development, and Prior Approval, and can guide you through the most strategic and suitable approach for your development aims.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Change of Use?
- Within the same Use Class: If the new activity is in the same Use Class as the existing one, permission may not be required. In some cases, your proposal may fall under permitted development rights, where planning permission is effectively granted nationally.
- Permitted development with conditions: To rely on PD rights, the proposal must meet strict criteria under the General Permitted Development (England) Order 2015, and these rights may be removed by Article 4 Directions, site designations, or planning conditions.
- Prior Approval: Even where PD rights apply, a Prior Approval application is often needed to secure legal certainty.
- Between different Use Classes: A full planning application will be required if the change is to a different Use Class. This usually involves justifying the loss of the existing use and evidencing how the new one meets local and national planning policy.
It’s also important to note that even if the use is permitted, if you are seeking to make material changes to the building to facilitate the proposed change of use, this will also require planning permission.
Key Questions to Ask Before Changing Use
- What is the current and proposed use?
- What is the local context—commercial, residential, or mixed?
- Has the site been vacant for a long period?
- Are there similar uses nearby?
- Are you renting or buying? (A subject-to-planning clause is often wise.)
- Could there be operational issues—opening hours, deliveries, or parking?
- Will the proposal involve material changes to the building?
Speaking to a planning consultant early on is essential to avoid risk before committing to a rental, purchase, or investment.
What We Offer
At Plainview Planning, we provide tailored support at every stage:
- Site-specific appraisals – reviewing planning history, policies, and risks.
- Advice on permitted development rights – and whether Prior Approval applies.
- Preparation and submission of Prior Approval or full planning applications.
- Planning statements & evidence packs – setting out clear, policy-led justifications.
- Appeal services – if permission has been refused.
- Liaison with local authorities – handling queries and negotiations on your behalf.
Our goal is to reduce uncertainty, secure permissions efficiently, and help you unlock the full potential of your property.
FAQs on Change of Use
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Not always. Some changes are covered by permitted development rights, but restrictions and conditions apply. We can confirm whether your project qualifies.
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An Article 4 Direction can remove permitted development rights, meaning you’ll need full planning permission. We’ll check this for you during our appraisal.
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Yes, but the use and the works may both require planning permissions. We can advise on the best combined strategy.
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Local authorities typically take 8 weeks to decide, though timescales vary. We can help minimise delays with a robust, complete submission.
Why Choose Plainview for Change of Use Applications?
- Experienced in commercial, rural, and residential change of use cases.
- Clear advice on whether to proceed under permitted development, prior approval, or full planning.
- Strong policy analysis and evidence gathering to support your case.
- Skilled at navigating refusals and appeals.
- A practical, commercially aware approach that balances planning risk with project viability.
A team you can trust
Plainview Planning is an independent consultancy that has supported clients across England since 2008. We believe good planning starts with listening, and we take pride in offering clear, supportive advice. From homeowners and landowners to developers, farmers, and businesses, we think strategically to unlock site potential, achieve development goals, and build trusted relationships that last beyond each project.
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