Changes to Agricultural Permitted Development

Published: 02/05/2024 By Andrew Tregay

The Government have announced the latest round of amendments to The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) which have made sweeping changes to permitted development rights on agricultural units. These amendments broadly expand on existing rights and allow more floorspace to be converted or created this leads to some exciting new opportunities for agricultural units. The key changes can be summarised as:

CHANGE OF USE

Class Q:

• Inclusion of ‘former’ agricultural buildings   
• Allowance of rear single-story extensions for Class Q development of up to 4m 
• All new dwellings limited at 150sqm. 
• New maximum number of dwellings at 10 rather than 5. 
• New maximum floorspace limit increased to 1000sqm.   

Class R:

• New maximum floorspace limit increased to 1000sqm (previously 500sqm). 
• Allowance to convert to class F2 (outdoor sport and recreation) 
• Allowance to convert to class B2 (general industrial for processing of raw goods that are produced on site) 
• Allowance of change of use to agricultural training 

AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Class A

• New agricultural buildings increased from 1000sqm to 1500sqm.
• Limit on engineering operations to 1000sqm.

Class B

• Cubic content of buildings can increase by 25%, previously 20%. 
• Cannot do works within curtilage of a scheduled monument.

Whilst many of the changes expand on existing rights there have been more subtle changes that need to be considered such as space standards and access.

There are some negatives, the ability to create larger homes has been removed and you are 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.

Our Agents have considerable experience in agricultural development including Class Q conversions, farm diversification and new agricultural buildings. If you have any questions or wish to discuss opportunities on your property please do get in touch with colleagues below.

Meanwhile, Symonds & Sampson's dedicated farm agents offer a range of services to farmers and landowners. They are here to help you make the best decisions, ensuring that the buying, selling, letting and managing of your most valuable asset is straight-forward and rewarding. For further details, please click here.