Big changes to Class Q & Class R for agricultural buildings

Last night the government updated the legislation for Class Q and Class R.

Class Q was refreshed on 30th April 2024, with the changes taking effect from 21st May 2024. Any applications on or after this date, will be subject to the new limits. Although until 20th May 2025, you can apply under the old rules, but not be able to take advantage of extensions (see below)

The main differences are five becomes ten new dwellings. The amount of space you can convert has increased to 1,000 m², however the maximum size of any dwelling is now 150 m² – therefore in order to have ten new dwellings under Class Q, each one will need to be 100 m² each.

You can now extend to the rear of the barn or agricultural building by up to 4m on any hard surface which was present on or before 24th July 2023.

The biggest factor and advantage for owners of barns is that far more barns now qualify under Class Q including barns that are no longer used for agricultural purposes. At this time there are no changes to barns used for equestrian purposes unless they are part of an agricultural unit.

Planning Geek are ready to submit applications on or after 21st May 2024. Please fill in our form here, for a fee proposal. To celebrate the new Class Q, we are offering a 20% discount off our fees for any Class Q or Class R application submitted between 21st May 2024 and 31st December 2024