Changes to Permitted Development Rights: unlocking new permissions to convert commercial to residential

 

March 2024 saw changes to Permitted Development Rights (PDR) come into effect; a positive development for building owners and developers that grants them with new permissions to convert commercial properties into residential use. The changes present a significant opportunity for building owners and developers to adapt more commercial properties into residential spaces, enabling them to meet the evolving needs of our communities.  But the time to act is now: with only an initial three-year window before potential revisions come in place, there is need a to move swiftly to capitalise on current favourable conditions before uncertainties arise.

What are the changes?

Changes to PDR include the removal of the 1,500 square metre floorspace cap on conversions and the elimination of the requirement for a property to be vacant for three months before applying. Removing these requirements has the potential to increase substantially the number of buildings where this permitted development right could be used.

The Prior Approval process remains the same. This is a streamlined procedure under the PDR that allows certain types of development to proceed without the need for a full planning application. Instead, developers or property owners submit an application for prior approval to the local planning authority.

The advantage of the prior approval process is that it tends to be faster and less complex than a full planning application, providing developers with greater certainty and efficiency in obtaining permission for their projects.

Why the change?

The changes to permitted development rules have been prompted by a recognition of several factors.

Housing demand: There is a significant need for more homes across the UK, driven by population growth and changing demographics. The government states it is committed to supporting housing delivery, but building new homes alone might not be enough to meet this demand. That’s why it is important to enable the upgrade of existing properties through retrofitting and refurbishing, to ensure quality homes are available throughout the country.

Relaxing permitted development rules aligns with these objectives by allowing the conversion of more types of commercial properties.

Commercial property pressures: Shifting work patterns, triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, have led to decreased demand for commercial workspace – more than half of office workers are now on a hybrid model, where they split their time between the office and working from home.

Converting under-used or vacant commercial properties into residential developments helps address this imbalance.

Partnering with Harwood Building Control for seamless property conversions

The relaxation of these planning laws means that converting unused office spaces for residential use has never been more attractive, or lucrative. But while the PDR changes have smoothed the way and streamlined the process, converting a property from commercial use can still be a complex endeavour; having the right partners by your side is essential for success.

As a responsible and reliable partner, Harwood Building Control can guide you through industry regulations – covering elements such as fireproofing, soundproofing and electrical and mechanical servicing – with our team possessing extensive experience and expertise in navigating building regulations and related legislation and standards.

Having a dependable partner for development projects is crucial for meeting deadlines and ensuring smooth operations on-site. Our commitment to excellence and clear communication instils confidence in our clients that their projects will be efficiently delivered while adhering to regulations without unnecessary complications.

By collaborating with Harwood, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge and experience available whenever needed. We recognise the importance of providing a professional, responsive, proactive, and efficient Building Control Service, tailored to surpass our clients’ expectations. With a proven track record, exceptional customer satisfaction, and a highly qualified, dedicated team, we can be relied on to deliver.

In conclusion, the recent changes to PDR present a significant opportunity for building owners and developers to adapt more commercial properties into residential spaces. These changes, effective as of March 2024, signify a positive development, granting new powers to transform unused or under-used commercial properties. However, with only a three-year window before potential revisions, it is important building owners and developers act now to seize the opportunity.

 

To speak to a member of the team about an upcoming project, or any opportunities you want to explore as the new regime gets underway, please contact us on 01227 931 777 or enquiries@harwood.uk.com.