As expected the government has today announced a relaxation of planning legislation which will allow office space to be converted into homes without the need for planning permission.
Communities Secretary Eric Pickles
The legislation will remain in place for three years and because local circumstances vary in the property market, local authorities will have the right to seek exemption providing they can demonstrate that the move would lead to “substantial” adverse economic consequences. As we have previously reported it is believed the City of London has already successfully done so.
Planning Minister Nick Boles said the legislation will ensure the best use is made of unoccupied commercial properties and make it possible to adapt to change and provide new homes.
“We are determined to make sure perfectly good underused properties are converted for homes and uses that will benefit our communities,” he said.
At the same time it was announced that the legislation also makes allowance for the conversion of agricultural properties to other business uses without the need to apply for planning permission.
This will allow farmers to convert underused agricultural buildings into revenue boosting ventures that will benefit rural communities. These might include retail outlets, restaurants, leisure properties and offices.
Furthermore, change of use for town centre properties will also be made easier to attract new businesses and aid the struggling high street. The new legislation will allow a range of properties to convert to other uses for up to two years.
Speaking about the changes, Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said the government also wants to promote the use of brownfield land to boost regeneration.
“Using previously developed land and buildings will help us promote economic growth, provide more homes and still ensure that we safeguard environmentally protected land.
“We are absolutely determined to support people striving to bring life back to their communities and high streets,” he said.
