The UK government has recently made significant changes to The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development in England), which affect the permitted development rights on agricultural units.

These amendments have expanded on existing rights and have allowed more floorspace to be converted or created, thereby creating new opportunities for agricultural units. Annabel Douglas of local estate agents Symonds & Sampson has outlined the key changes to the permitted development rights that have been introduced by the government.

Chard & Ilminster News: There have been changes to agricultural permitted development rights

Annabel mentioned that the changes to the planning laws include the following amendments to the existing regulations under Class Q: the inclusion of ‘former’ agricultural buildings; the allowance of rear single-story extensions for Class Q development of up to four metres; all new dwellings are limited at 150sqm; a new maximum number of dwellings will be 10 rather than five; a new maximum floorspace limit has increased to 1000sqm.

Similarly, under Class R, the new maximum floorspace limit has increased from 500sqm to 1000sqm; there is an allowance to convert to class F2 for outdoor sport and recreation; there is an allowance to convert to class B2 for general industrial use for the processing of raw goods that are produced on site, and there is an allowance of change of use to agricultural training.

Changes have also been introduced to agricultural development under Class A, with the size of new agricultural buildings increasing from 1000sqm to 1500sqm, and there is a limit on engineering operations to 1000sqm. Under Class B, the cubic content of buildings can increase by 25%, previously it was 20%. However, it is important to note that works within the curtilage of a scheduled monument are not allowed. While the changes to the planning regulations expand on existing rights, there have been some subtle changes that need to be considered, such as space standards and access.

Commenting on the new changes, Annabel said: “There are some negatives, such as the ability to create larger homes has been removed and you are now limited to dwellings of 150sqm. Also, there was hope that Class Q would be expanded into National Landscapes however this has not materialised under these changes. Nevertheless, the changes provide an exciting opportunity for agricultural redevelopments, diversification or expansion of existing facilities.”

If you have any questions or wish to discuss opportunities for your property, Symonds & Sampson can offer advice on all aspects of agricultural development, including Class Q conversions, farm diversification, and new agricultural buildings. You can get in touch with Annabel in Symonds & Sampson’s Bridport office on 01308 459564.