Using permitted development to unlock sites and accelerate delivery

1. Unlocking underused commercial space

Class MA allows for the conversion of Class E buildings to residential and, as of March 2024, there is no size limit or vacancy requirement making more sites eligible. Prior approval applications can be submitted alongside full planning applications, and can also be amended via S96A or S73 applications (depending upon the scale of the proposed amends). 

For instance, a Class MA application can unlock the residential conversion of a commercial building. Following this, a full planning application might be submitted to modify the external appearance, such as introducing façade enhancements or improving the residential quality of a building by adding balconies. This layered approach is often more efficient and flexible than submitting a single full application for the comprehensive redevelopment of a commercial site, as it can allow certain elements of the scheme to come forward without being subject to the full scope of local planning policies.

2. Establishing principles

Permitted development does not have to be the end result. As an alternative approach to layering applications, prior approval can also be used to establish a change of use or increased building height (up to two more storeys), before applying for a more comprehensive development. 

This can establish precedents, reducing resistance to future proposals for an alternative use or increased building height, which often come with policy challenges. This approach can result in a smoother process to achieving full planning permission for more comprehensive proposals.

3. De-risking acquisition

Permitted development is a relatively quick and cost-effective means of testing a site before purchase. Submitting a prior approval application on a potential site can offer further security that the site is suitable for future redevelopment and provide confirmation that constraints such as poor daylight or commercial noise exposure can be overcome. This can also help to inform the design of any future development proposals.

4. Maximising value in mixed-use buildings

Permitted development applications do not require the use of the entire building to be changed. They can allow the change of use of only some floors, for example converting upper floors to residential while retaining the ground floor for commercial uses. This means income streams can be diversified by maintaining active frontage and rental yield from retained uses, keeping the site activated and retaining footfall throughout the development process.

Permitted development should therefore be considered not just as a shortcut, but as a strategic tool. Used wisely, it can unlock development sites, reduce planning risk, and accelerate delivery.

If you have any questions about a site please do get in touch.

Further information

Contact Zoe Tozer