A guide to permitted development changes – Class ZA

The Government has announced changes to permitted development rights which could now allow redundant light industrial buildings, workshops, offices and flats to be demolished and replaced with new, taller residential buildings.

The new Class ZA planning class allows for the demolition of a single detached building which was within B1 use class on 12^th March 2020 and its’ replacement with a single purpose-built house with up to two extra storeys. The footprint of the existing building must not exceed 1,000m2 and the replacement dwelling must not exceed the existing footprint or increase in height by more than 7m or a maximum of 18m.

Any development under Class ZA must be completed within 3 years of the prior approval being granted.

A Class ZA application requires a Prior Approval application being made to the Local Authority and it should be decided within 8 weeks. Other reports will also need to be submitted along with the application along with full sets of drawings.

There are of course a number of restrictions which includes those buildings in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Site of Special Scientific Interest and Conservation Areas and listed buildings are also excluded. Buildings must have been constructed before 31 December 1989 and been vacant for at least 6 months prior to the application.

If you have a building which you are considering alternative uses for get in touch with our team today who can advise and guide you.