More flats from offices

First introduced as a temporary measure in 2013 to increase the number of residential properties, the ability to change property use from class B1(a) offices to class C3 residential without requiring planning permission has been made permanent. The measure announced by the government under the Housing and Planning Bill is subject to some exceptions and obtaining Prior Approval. The right extends to the permission to demolish office buildings, although limitations to this right have not been disclosed at this time. So far almost 4,000 homes have been approved through these rights, although not all have been implemented. Schemes already permitted now have a deadline for completion of May 2019.

17 areas with strategically important office space, including the City of London, are currently exempt from these development rights. From May 2019 these areas will no longer benefit from exemption although relevant authorities will be able to make an article 4 direction to remove the rights.