New measures to breathe life into empty buildings and boost growth

The Government has recently announced new measures to ensure that use is made of empty and underused buildings to provide homes and businesses

New permitted development rights will enable offices to be converted to homes.

High street premises will be able to be used for new types of business without permission. Buildings that are classed for use as retail, financial services, restaurants, pubs and hot food takeaways, offices, leisure and assembly uses can temporarily change to another use class.

Existing agricultural buildings, less than 500m2, will be able to be utilised for a range of new uses such as shops or offices, to provide more chances for rural businesses to diversify.

Also a series of measures will also facilitate the conversion of existing buildings to become new state-funded schools. Premises such as offices , hotels, and residential/non-residential institutions will be able to be used as a state funded school for a temporary period.

If you require more information with regards the latest changes in permitted development introduced by the Government please contact Claire on 01282 872570.

©Kirkwells Town Planners and Sustainable Development Consultants based at the Lancashire Digital Technology Centre in Burnley www.kirkwells.co.uk

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