Class Q was introduced in 2014 as permitted development, designed with the aim of easing the pressure on housing in rural areas.
Class Q permits the conversion of buildings on agricultural units to dwelling houses subject to certain limitations and conditions.
From the London green belt to further afield, in the UK, there’s ample opportunity for transforming previously neglected agricultural buildings into stunning sustainable homes.
But before we delve into this further, let’s break down what Class Q actually is.
What Is Class Q?
In short, Class Q grants permitted development rights for the conversion of buildings on agricultural units into dwellings.
This includes the change of use of a building or land within its curtilage, including the building operations necessary to convert the building in question.
Now we’ve covered what Class Q is, let’s look at the changes that came into effect in 2024, the considerations to bear in mind when it comes to Class Q development opportunities, and how Landstack can help.
Class Q permits the conversion of buildings on agricultural units to dwellinghouses subject to certain limitations and conditions.
Changes To Class Q
New rules relating to Class Q came into effect on the 21st of May, 2024. But what does this actually mean for Class Q opportunities? Primarily it comes down to a few points.
Buildings don’t necessarily need to be agricultural in order to change use, they simply need to be located on or around an agricultural unit.
You can now build up to 10 separate dwellings (previously 5) under Class Q with a maximum floor area of 150 sqm and a maximum cumulative floor area of 1000 sqm, allowing for more flexibility on the buildings that can potentially be converted.
That said, it’s important to note that the new rules reduce the maximum size of a dwelling from 465 sqm to 150 sqm and mandate that each building must have existing suitable road access on site.
Other changes mean you’re now able to build a 4m depth and height single-storey rear extension on existing hardstanding and are permitted to increase external wall thickness by 20cm.
These changes will open up opportunities within the property development landscape. This is especially true for individuals whose barns didn’t previously benefit from Class Q, for instance, stables on farms, and for individuals who have already maxed out the previous 5 dwelling allowance.
Class Q Permitted Development Opportunities: What To Consider
A key benefit of Class Q is that it allows development within the green belt, which is notoriously challenging and involves many planning obstacles.
Class Q thus provides a unique opportunity to develop homes in rural areas that would otherwise struggle to achieve planning.
When analysing Class Q permitted development opportunities, there are many factors to consider.
These factors include, but are not limited to:
1. Class Q Is Applied To Each Agricultural Unit
It’s important to note that you’re not able to apply Class Q to each agricultural building.
Instead, it is applied to each agricultural unit, so you must familiarise yourself with the limitations of Class Q when exploring opportunities.
You can now build up to 10 separate dwellings (previously 5) under Class Q with a maximum floor area of 150 sqm and a maximum cumulative floor area of 1000 sqm.
2. The Dwellings Must Have Suitable Road Access
Although previously a grey area, the new rules mean that dwellings must have suitable public road access existing on site.
If vehicle access is not already available, you have until May 2025 to apply under the old Class Q rules.
Otherwise, it’s recommended that you seek planning permission first.
3. The Building(s) To Be Converted Must Be Part Of An Agricultural Unit On Or Before July 24th 2023
If the building(s) weren’t part of an agricultural unit on or before 24th July 2023, then it won’t qualify under the new Class Q rules, and you’ll need to wait 10 years before undertaking a Class Q conversion.
Alternatively, it may qualify under the old rules until May 2025.
4. Class Q Doesn’t Permit The Complete Demolition & Rebuilding Of Agricultural Buildings
Class Q ‘relates to the conversion of existing agricultural buildings’.
As such, it does not permit the complete demolition and rebuilding of agricultural buildings, it only permits partial demolition.
5. You Must Go Through Prior Approval
Lastly, it’s important to remember that you must go through Prior Approval.
An application for Prior Approval to the local planning authority must be submitted.
This is to ensure that the specified parts of a development are acceptable.
Although Class Q offers opportunities for housing development while simultaneously meeting housing needs in more rural areas across the UK, it’s important to bear these considerations in mind when seeking out opportunities.
No matter the Class Q opportunity, an application for Prior Approval to the local planning authority must be submitted.
Identify Class Q Opportunities With Landstack
Do you need help identifying whether a proposed development falls under Class Q?
Landstack can help.
Landstack provides layers of data to give you superior views of development land in the UK, and can help you to identify suitable Class Q opportunities.
Our planning data allows you to build a picture of future developments and land availability in a specific area, whilst our advanced search features allow you to streamline site identification and discover Class Q opportunities with potential.
To learn more about the services we offer or to book a demo, please contact our team at support@landstack.co.uk or 01285706708 today.