Get in touch
ANDREW BARTON
E: land@apexland.co.uk
T: 01872 278030
M: 07588 779705
JODY JEFFREY
E: land@apexland.co.uk
T: 01872 248535
M: 07551 127996
ANDREW BARTON
E: land@apexland.co.uk
T: 01872 278030
M: 07588 779705
JODY JEFFREY
E: land@apexland.co.uk
T: 01872 248535
M: 07551 127996
Class Q Conversions of agricultural buildings for residential use in Cornwall & Devon. We help landowners and farmers maximise the value of their land holdings through the planning system.
Agricultural buildings meeting certain conditions can now be converted into residential use with up to 10 dwellings under permitted development rights. These are known as Class Q Conversions and the rules were updated in April 2024.
In a move to support the agricultural sector and deliver more housing, permitted development rights have been extended to include the conversion of agricultural buildings.
These rights could be taken away at any time so if you think you have a suitable building talk to us now to clarify whether you qualify or not.
We offer a range of options to suit our clients which include covering all the planning costs entirely at our risk.
Class Q, R and Agricultural Permitted Development Rights have recently been updated. We have set out a summary below so please contact us if you think you have an opportunity that needs our help either with planning support or investment.
Class Q – Agricultural to Dwellinghouses
Expanded Scope: Now includes non-agricultural buildings (e.g., stables) on agricultural units.
Single Storey Extensions: Allowed if there's pre-existing hardstanding (before 24th July 2023), extensions are at the rear, and don't exceed 4 metres.
Increased Permitted Development: Up to 10 dwellinghouses, each up to 150 sqm, with a total cumulative space of 1,000 sqm.
Pre-Development Size Compliance: Buildings must meet space standards and have suitable highway access.
Conversion Capability: Existing structures must be capable of conversion.
Class R – Agricultural Buildings to Flexible Commercial Use
Updated Use Classes: Includes Class B2, B8, C1, E, F.2(c), and a new category for agricultural training.
Increased Size Limit: Cumulative floor space for change of use increased to 1,000 sqm.
Class B2 Clarification: Must process and sell on-site produced raw goods (excluding livestock).
Agricultural Permitted Development Rights (PD)
Increased Ground Area
Units of 5+ hectares: increased from 1,000 to 1,500 sqm.
Units <5 hectares: increased from 1,000 to 1,250 sqm.
Maximum cubic content increase for smaller units upped to 25%.
Restrictions on Scheduled Monuments: No new buildings or extensions on or within curtilage of scheduled monuments.
Transitional Provisions: Developments permitted before 21st May 2024 can be completed by 20th May 2025, with prior approval applications allowed until then.
Why choose Apex Land and Red Planning?
We have an experienced planning team who know how to present the best case for your land.
We have creative design solutions.
We can structure an agreement to suit you including taking on all of the costs for the application.
We recognise the urgency of helping farmers with class Q before this opportunity runs out.
We undertake planning work on behalf of the local authority.
We can look at other opportunities on your land for development or diversification to supplement traditional farming revenues.
Design and images by MRT Architects LLP