In September 2020, the UK government made major changes to the way properties are classified. The goal was to make the planning system more flexible, reduce red tape, and better match how businesses and communities actually use spaces.
Here’s a breakdown of the new system and what it means for property owners and developers.
Key Use Classes Explained
Class E – Commercial, Business & Services: This new class brings together several old categories like retail, offices, cafes, gyms, and more.
✅ What it means: You can switch between these uses (e.g., shop to café) without needing planning permission.
Class F.1 – Learning & Non-Residential Institutions: Covers schools, libraries, places of worship, and medical centres.
✅ Focuses on education, health, and community use.
Class F.2 – Local Community Use: Includes small shops (under 280 sqm), community halls, and sports grounds.
✅ Aims to protect spaces that serve local people.
Class F.3 – Assembly & Leisure: Cinemas, gyms, concert halls, and other entertainment or leisure venues.
✅ Recognizes the need for spaces that bring people together.
Class B1 – Business (now partly merged with Class E): Offices, research facilities, and some light industrial use.
✅ Still relevant for more business-specific uses.
Class B2 – General Industrial: Used for manufacturing and industrial processes that don’t fit into B1.
✅ Includes factories or large production facilities.
Class B8 – Storage & Distribution: Covers warehouses and distribution centres.
✅ Supports logistics and supply chains.
Class C1 – Hotels and Hostels: Includes hotels, guest houses, and hostels.
✅ For short-term stays.
Class C2 – Residential Institutions: Covers care homes, hospitals, and residential schools.
✅ For people needing long-term care or supervision.
Class C3 – Residential Homes: Standard houses, flats, and apartments.
✅ Regular family homes or individual residences.
Sui Generis – Unique Uses: These don’t fit any set category, like pubs, cinemas, petrol stations, or casinos.
✅ Each one is treated individually and usually needs planning permission for changes.
What This Means for You
More Flexibility: Class E makes it easier to change how a building is used without needing permission.
Faster Approvals: Some changes now fall under permitted development rights, so you can skip full planning applications.
New Opportunities: Classes F.1, F.2, and F.3 open up more options to develop educational, community, or leisure spaces.
What to Keep in Mind
These changes are good news—but you still need to consider local planning rules, your market, and community needs.Also, Always do your research, speak with planning experts, and check local council guidance before making changes.
Final Thoughts
The new use classes are a big step towards a more modern and flexible planning system. They’re designed to help property owners and developers respond more easily to changing needs—and help communities become more vibrant and adaptable.
