The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987
In England, the "Use Classes Order" is a legal framework that categorises different types of land and buildings based on their primary use. The order, officially known as the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987, has been revised since its inception. Its primary purpose is to provide clarity and consistency in planning regulations, guiding local authorities and property owners in understanding and managing land use.
The Use Classes Order organises various uses into specific classes, each representing a distinct category of activities or functions. These classes include residential, commercial, industrial, and other specific uses like educational or recreational. The order helps streamline the planning process by allowing certain types of development or use changes within the same class without requiring explicit planning permission.
For example, if a property falls within the same use class, changing from one specific type of business to another may not necessitate formal planning approval. This flexibility encourages efficient use of existing buildings and reduces bureaucratic hurdles for minor changes.
However, it's crucial to note that recent amendments to the Use Classes Order, such as those introduced in 2020, have expanded the scope of permitted development rights and introduced a new "Commercial, Business, and Service" use class, consolidating various commercial uses. These changes aim to adapt to evolving patterns of retail and business activities, providing greater flexibility for property owners and businesses.
Overall, the Use Classes Order in England plays a central role in shaping the urban and rural landscape by influencing the planning and development processes, aiming to balance the needs of different sectors while promoting sustainable land use.
Categories
Class A1. Shops (a)for the retail sale of goods other than hot food | (b)as a post office, |
Class A2. Financial and professional services | (a) financial services, or |
Class A3. Food and drink | Use for the sale of food or drink for consumption on the premises or of hot food for consumption off the premises. Class B1. Business (a)as an office other than a use within class A2 (financial and professional services), |
Class B2. General industrial | Use for the carrying on of an industrial process other than one falling within class B1 above or within classes B3 to B7 below. |
Class B3. Special Industrial Group A | Use for any work registrable under the Alkali, etc. Works Regulation Act 1906(1)(a) and which is not included in any of classes B4 to B7 below. |
Class B4. Special Industrial Group B | Use for any of the following processes, except where the process is ancillary to the getting, |
Class B5. Special Industrial Group C | Use for any of the following processes, except where the process is ancillary to the getting, |
Class B6. Special Industrial Group D | (a) distilling, refining or blending oils (other than petroleum or petroleum products); |
Class B7. Special Industrial Group E | Use for carrying on any of the following industries, businesses or trades:— |
Class B8. Storage or distribution | Use for storage or as a distribution centre. |