Class Q Permitted Development Explained
Class Q Permitted Development rights are set out in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. In the UK, this allows the conversion of agricultural buildings into dwelling houses (homes) without the need for a full planning application. There are, however, specific guidelines and constraints that need to be adhered to.
As of May 2024, important changes to Class Q Permitted Development regulations have been introduced in the UK to streamline the process and encourage rural development. This includes updates to the allowable floor space and the maximum number of units. More clarity has also been given around what constitutes a building being “structurally strong enough” for conversion and new sustainability criteria has been added. The approvals process has been simplified and the scope has been broadened to include other non-agricultural, redundant buildings.
Importantly, there are now enhanced protections for tenants, who might be affected by the conversion of agricultural buildings, and should be consulted or compensated for proposed changes.
These changes reflect the UK government’s ongoing efforts to balance development needs with sustainability and quality-of-life improvements, making rural development more feasible and attractive while safeguarding environmental and community interests.
Landowners in Dorset will no doubt welcome these changes and we are taking enquiries from clients wishing to explore their options under the new guidelines. If you have land with development potential, we can provide more clarity around the changes and the opportunities now available.
Our team also hold an annual ‘Land Seminar’ for local landowners to hear from MPs, architects, planning consultants, accountants and solicitors regarding these matters. Keep an eye out for the next seminar, which will be held in the Autumn of this year.
