The high street is set to see change as Housing Secretary James Brokenshire announces new permitted development rights are being considered for high street premise owners, making change of use a simpler process.
The government’s plans are to revive the high street and increase footfall by allowing, for example, shops and professional services to be turned into offices, and takeaways to be turned into homes, all without necessarily having to apply for formal planning permission. New homes and new services should in turn attract people back to the high street, meaning more support for local businesses and restaurants.
To further encourage the creation of new homes, the government propose a new right to allow for buildings to be extended upwards, whilst ensuring the look and feel of the streetscape is maintained, as well as respecting the amenity of existing neighbours. In addition, for those wishing to build larger single storey rear extensions to their homes, the current temporary permitted development right will be made permanent.
The government also intends to extend the temporary change of use right from two to three years, with a view to community initiatives being able to benefit from the right.
Despite controversy surrounding the plans, permitted development right measures are due to be implemented this spring, however the potential right to replace demolished commercial buildings with new homes remains under review.
If you own retail property and would like to understand the value of change of use, please call us on +44 (0)20 7266 8500.