SFP are please to report a successful ‘Class Q’ application recently achieved for our Client, working with Forest of Dean District Council.

The proposals were for the change of use of an existing agricultural building near Staunton, Gloucestershire to 3no. residential dwellings along with building works reasonably necessary to convert the building.  Our work included an application to Forest of Dean District Council seeking a determination as to whether the prior approval of the Council would be required with regard to Class Q of the 2015 Town and Country Planning General Permitted Development Order (GPDO). This involved us working with the architect and other consultants to demonstrate the scheme complied with the relevant parts of the GPDO, including demonstrating the building was capable of conversion and was in lawful agricultural use.

Proactive negotiations were held with the planning officer during the course of the application, with a short extension of time agreed to address ecology and some other matters which came up during consultation. This included the commissioning of a lighting strategy to demonstrate the proposals would comply with the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the NPPF.

SFP have lots of experience of delivering Class Q approvals across the country and overall, a good result for our Client. If you require similar support, please do not hesitate to contact us on: 01242 231575 or visit our website to take a look at all of our services.