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We act on behalf of business owners and land owners looking to make the most of their existing or future commercial premises.

The new use classes regulations took effect from 1 September2020, amending the Use Classes Order which groups different uses of land and buildings into use classes. A change of use within a single use class is not considered to be development and therefore does not require planning permission. The changes introduce a broad new commercial, business and service use class (Class E), including shops, financial and professional services, restaurants and cafes, offices, medical or health services, creche, day nurseries amongst others. This generally sets a greater deal of flexibility for occupiers in the High Street than ever before. It also creates new “Learning and Non-Residential Institutions” (F1) and “Local Community” (F2) use classes. In addition, the former drinking establishments (A4) and hot food takeaway (A5) use classes have been removed, meaning that changes to and from these uses will require full planning permission.

If you are managing a property or property portfolio, looking to lease or purchase a new premises please contact the Planning Team on 01737 225711 or via email admin@wspa.co.uk

EV Charging Station with Cafe in Copthorne
The Atrium in Dorking, Surrey
Bar in George Street, Croydon
Pontoon mooring in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
Permission for a Marquee at Robert Denholm House, Nutfield
New Signage for taxi firm in Redhill
Children’s play barn at Waylands Farm near Westerham, Kent
External signage and lighting for restaurant in London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Change of building use class for Dorking Taxi company
Unlocking Potential for a Veterinary Practice with residential flats
Lymden Hydrotherapy and Physiotherapy Clinic in Reigate, Surrey
Change of use from B2 (General Industrial) to B8 (Storage/Distribution) with other alterations
Change of use from retail to office, with external changes to the elevations. 1 Trehaven Parade, Woodhatch, Reigate RH2 7LL
Change of use from A1 retail unit to a beauty spa (Sui Generis) at 61 West Street, Dorking, RH4 1BS
Change of Use from Restaurant (Class E) to Drinking Establishment (Sui Generis)
Fego, High Street, Banstead
Solar Farm in rural Hampshire
Extension, internal alterations, childrens play area & additional parking at The Jolly Farmers, Reigate Road, Betchworth, Surrey
Mannings Heath Hotel, traditional barn style extension to provide wedding venue
Walton Pharmacy, Walton on the Hill in Tadworth, Surrey
Queens Road in Hastings, East Sussex
Barn Theatre, Oxted