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Agricultural development: does size really matter?

Agricultural development: does size really matter? Guy Wilson MRICS FAAV of Stags Professional Services department outlines the implications of the 2018 Town and Country Planning Order.

Nearly 18 months since The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) (Amendment) Order 2018 came into force, some landowners remain unaware of its implications for the scale of agricultural development and changes of use.

Most notably, the order increased the maximum floor area of agriucltural buildings erected under a 28-day notice to 1,000mand increased the maximum number of dwellings permitted under Class Q to five; previously this was capped at three on any single agricultural unit.

Guy Wilson of Stags explains that the implications of this are twofold:

Firstly, for the erection of agricultural buildings, landowners can benefit from a simplified application process and a reduced planning fee. This is most clearly illustrated by the example of an agricultural building of 1,000m2; under full planning permission the application fee for this would be £3,696, whereas the fee for a prior notification for the same building would be just £96.

Secondly, for Class Q, the amendments afford landowners an opportunity to take a second bite of the cherry, where they have utilitsed Class Q previously or to max out where they are exploring it only now; creating a maximum of five dwellings with a combined floor area of 865m2

However, development using Permitted Development rights is not always possible or may prejudice further development opportunities. For these reasons, obtaining advice from a qualified professional is always advised.

For tailored planning advice, contact your local expert from Stags Professional Services department today.