Expert Guidance On Class Q Barn Conversions for Farmers and Landowners.
If you own a redundant or underused agricultural building, Class Q permitted development could provide an opportunity to convert it into one or more homes without applying for full planning permission.
From assessing eligibility to preparing and submitting your application, our specialists are here to help you unlock your property's potential.
What is Class Q development?
Class Q permitted development allows for the conversion of agricultural (or former) buildings into residential dwellings. It permits the change of use of the existing structure, without having to apply for full planning permission.
Legislation
On the 21st of May 2024, a new iteration of the Class Q Permitted Development was introduced which replaced the previous legislation.
Size
Under current legislation, Class Q can be used to create up to 10 new homes, with a combined floorspace of up to 1,000 sqm on one holding.
The maximum size of any dwelling created is 150 sqm.
Extensions
An applicant will be able to extend to the back of the barn or agricultural building by up to 4m on any hard surface which was present on or before the 24th of July 2023.
Deadline
Class Q applications have a deadline of 56 days for a decision. If the local authority has not made a decision in that time, the application can receive deemed consent.
Sizing and compliance for Class Q developments.
The maximum size of any dwelling created is 150 sqm. The image to the left shows some potential unit mixes which are Class Q compliant.
You can see some examples of what can be achieved under Class Q in our case study brochure below.
Enhance your barn conversion with Class Q Replacements.
Once a Class Q application has been approved, it's possible to apply to replace the consented unit(s) with a new residential dwelling(s).
This can enable you to create a new residential dwelling(s) in a location where it would not be possible under the traditional planning process.
The key is the proposed scheme must be ‘better’ than the Class Q scheme it's replacing. This can be achieved in a number of ways including better design and/or incorporating renewable energy resources.
Our award-winning planning and architecture team are here to guide you through the process from start to finish.
Ready to explore your options with Class Q developments?
Use the form below to check if you could be eligible for Class Q or contact our team for personalised guidance on your project.
Ready to explore your options with Class Q developments?
Use the form below to check if you could be eligible for Class Q or contact our team for personalised guidance on your project.
