Change of use - commercial property - need help!

mushtafa · 7 Aug 2017 at 22:07

So, been looking for a new unit to rent, and the one I'd like has the incorrect business use; B1c & B8. I need B2.

Is this something I can apply for before taking on the unit, or do I request the owner to apply for me? As far as I can see, there is no charge, and it's as simple as filing in an online form?

2. Permitted changes of use

You won’t need planning permission if the proposed change is what’s referred to as a ‘permitted change’ e.g. turning a restaurant or café (A3) into a greengrocer (A1).

Top Tip

As a general rule, changes within the same class that go from a higher number to a lower number are permitted. However, there are exceptions to that. For example, you can’t turn a hot food takeaway (A5) into a drinking establishment (A4). But, you can turn it into a restaurant (A3), a professional and financial services branch (A2), or a shop (A1)

B1 (business) ----- Up to 500m2 B8.

B2 (general industrial) ----- B1

B2 (general industrial) ----- Up to 500m2 B8

B8 (storage and distribution) ----- Up to 500m2 B1

Can anyone give any advice? Thanks

LOAM · 7 Aug 2017 at 22:16

Speak to the planning department, we've done a few B1 to B2 in the past and they can get messy with HSE depending on if there is any sensitive neighbouring units. We had an absolute nightmare with one because it was close to a petroleum refinery and B2 was considered hazardous.

mushtafa · 7 Aug 2017 at 22:27

I'm hoping it won't be too bad, the unit next door has B2 use, but unfortunately it's no longer available.

Scrutinize · 8 Aug 2017 at 09:12

The change of use itself is an easy process (usually) but can still end up costing money in planning authority and consultancy fees if supporting info is required. Speak to the local planning authority first to confirm it would be a straightforward application without requiring supporting information.

However as you are leasing the unit, the owner/agent may not permit this change of use anyway.

It also depends how much your use would deviate from what can be considered B1c/B8. B1c covers a reasonable amount.

Glaucus · 8 Aug 2017 at 10:29

also interested in this topic. am I right in thinking that I would require b2 for light metal work in a workshop or would b1 be suffice?
and any idea what the best way to talk to the local council is. ie which person/job title am I looking for in the giant lists of contacts.

Scrutinize · 8 Aug 2017 at 17:01

It can depends where your unit is i.e. adjacent to a residential area or in an industrial/commercial area but B1c could cover you depending on intensity of activity and associated impacts such as waste generation and noise.