Class Q Permitted Development: an Overview

What is Class Q?

Do you have agricultural buildings sitting unused, crying out to be brought back to life? What about an outbuilding you know would make the most stunning barn conversion? If your answer to either of these questions is “Yes!” Class Q of the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) should be on your radar.

Introduced in 2014, the regulation intended to promote rural development. It provided greater opportunities to self-builders and small developers looking to create homes in the countryside, where new developments often face strict regulations. In areas where obtaining planning permission for new builds may be unlikely, Class Q aimed to make barn conversions and turning agricultural buildings into profitable housing a more straightforward process.

In a nutshell, Class Q planning permission was introduced to enable the conversion of existing agricultural buildings into homes via an easier route than obtaining full planning permission – an often long and frustrating process. 

The scheme did help, but a long list of stipulations meant many were still missing the chance to increase the value of their old, unused buildings.

Fast forward to 21^st May 2024, and in a bid to expand the scope for conversions and to streamline the application process further, the Government introduced some fundamental changes.

2024 Amendments to Class Q

So, what are some of the key changes to this legislation?

• Time reset – Whereas previously, the building must have been used for agricultural purposes on or before 20^th March 2013, that date has now been reset to 24^th July 2023. 
• Dwelling quantity – The number of permitted dwellings per agricultural unit (note per unit, not per building) has doubled from 5 to 10.
• Floor space – Permitted floor space limits have changed. Maximum floor space for a single dwelling has decreased from 465m2 to 150m2. However, total floor space limits have increased to an overall allowance of 1000m2 across all ten houses. 
• Previous use – The rules surrounding previous use have been somewhat relaxed. For example, outbuildings such as barns need not necessarily be used for agricultural purposes to qualify so long as they are part of an established agricultural unit. Guidelines around this can be a little unclear, however, so professional input should always be sought for clarity. 
• Extensions – A single-storey extension of up to 4m to the rear of a building is now permitted, provided it is on existing hard standing and is carried out alongside the rest of the agricultural unit conversion. This cannot be a standalone project under Class Q.

You can still apply under the old Class Q guidelines until 20^th May 2025. This may be your best option if you want to carry out a conversion greater than the 150m2 allowed under the updated rules, for example.

Does your Building Qualify for Class Q?

The updates to Class Q have extended the scope of permitted development and eased the way for many wishing to convert redundant agricultural units. Certain restrictions, however, naturally remain. If you want to pursue this route, you will need to take note of the following:

• Access – the building you wish to convert must have existing access to a public highway.
• Structure – The 2024 amendments have granted greater flexibility in this area, now allowing for minor rebuilding provided the original framework is maintained. However, the building must be capable of conversion without the need for major structural work and the existing framework must be strong enough to support residential use. 
• Exclusions –  Class Q will not apply if the agricultural unit is listed, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, within a World Heritage Site, or in a National Park.

How Can We Help You?

Whether profiting from redundant buildings transformed into multiple dwellings or creating your dream home with a bespoke rustic barn conversion, the introduction of Class Q and its subsequent amendments undoubtedly provides extensive opportunities for landowners with property that could be working harder for them.

If you are considering your own project, we invite you to get in touch with us to talk through your options. As specialists in top quality renovations and refurbishments, and with a comprehensive portfolio of beautifully converted barns, our highly skilled team will work with you every step of the way to assist you in turning your vision into your reality.

You can contact us via our Contact Form, call us on 01905 820080 or email us at info@2countiesconstruction.co.uk

The above information provides an overview of Class Q and some of its associated stipulations and amendments. However, we always advise seeking professional advice from a planning consultant before proceeding with any application.