Significant adjustments have been made to the regulations regarding the change of use for agricultural buildings under Class Q.

This is following a recent review by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, effective from 21st May 2024. These revisions carry broad implications for property owners, developers, and the agricultural sector as a whole.

Class Q & Class R Explained

Class Q

 

Class Q Permitted Development Rights facilitate the conversion of specified agricultural structures like barns, cowsheds, and storage facilities into residential properties, without requiring full planning permission. This provision aims to rejuvenate disused agricultural spaces whilst addressing the growing need for houses in rural areas. 

Understanding The Latest Amendments for Agricultural Buildings

 

The latest amendment expands this provision to include up to 10 dwellings, allowing larger agricultural buildings to be converted into multiple residences and thereby increasing the potential for residential development in rural regions.

While these changes offer new possibilities, certain restrictions apply:

• • The maximum allowable conversion space will increase to 1000 m², with each dwelling limited to a maximum of 150 m². This means that to achieve ten dwellings under Class Q, each must be around 100 m².

• • Rear extensions of up to 4m are permitted on pre-existing hard surfaces present on or before 24th July 2023.

Additionally, a broader range of barns now qualify under Class Q, encompassing those no longer utilised for agricultural purposes (excluding equestrian uses).

The relaxation of restrictions under Class Q opens doors for property developers to creatively repurpose agricultural buildings, contributing to rural heritage preservation and community revitalisation.

Class R

 

Class R pertains to the conversion of agricultural buildings into a broader range of commercial purposes and was amended on 30th April 2024, in response to evolving rural economic needs, supporting diversification and innovation in agricultural practices.

Under Class R, agricultural structures can now be repurposed into various commercial establishments such as offices, workshops, and retail spaces. This flexibility enables farmers and landowners to utilise their assets to generate additional income streams and adapt to market shifts.

Previously permitted changes included uses like Storage & Distribution (B8), Hotels (C1), or Use Class E (Commercial, Business, or Service). 

New Options for Class R Agricultural Buildings

 

Class R now expands these options to include General Industrial (B2), Outdoor Sport and Recreation (F2(c)), or agricultural training from 21st May 2024.

Again, the limit of 500m² has risen to 1000m². 

Expanding permissible commercial activities under Class R fosters entrepreneurship and business growth in rural areas, contributing to economic resilience and sustainability.

In the example of the Development Site, Langfords Lane, High Littleton, Bristol, Bath And North East Somerset BS39 6HN

For sale in our 22nd May auction, it’s quite conceivable that the existing Class Q planning for 5 houses could evolve to develop the two barns, circa 770m² each, into 10 houses and an office block, or even a hotel using the combined total of 1540m² of agricultural buildings. 

Before undertaking such a scheme, we strongly advise you to get advice from a planning consultant and architect. 

Selling Land Or An Agricultural Building?

 

If you’re considering selling any land or agricultural buildings, we’d be delighted to offer a free auction appraisal with no obligation. Feel free to call us at 01179 464949 or email us using our contact form.