The government has introduced new planning rules allowing a wider range of commercial buildings to be converted into homes, to “revitalise England’s cherished high streets and town centres”.
Following a consultation that closed in January, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has created a new permitted development right for change of use from commercial, business and service use class to residential.
MHCLG said the converted homes would go through a “prior approval” process instead of a full planning application. They must provide adequate light and meet space standards. Considerations will also be made to any impact on flooding and health care provision.
Under the right, effective from August 1, buildings for homes conversion can be no larger than 1,500 sq m and must have been vacant for at least three continuous months. They must also have been in commercial, business and service uses for two years.
MHCLG said that the conversion of commercial premises to new homes would support local high streets, encouraging more people to live near them and “come to the area for work and leisure”.
The new rules would also remove “eyesores, transforming unused buildings and making the most of brownfield land”.
Housing secretary Robert Jenrick said: “We are creating the most small business friendly planning system in the world to provide the flexibility needed for high streets to bounce back from the pandemic.
“By diversifying our town and city centres and encouraging the conversion of unused shops into cafes, restaurants or even new homes, we can help the high street to adapt and thrive for the future.”
