Class S prior approval scheme
The Classes S prior approval scheme in the UK permits the change of use of agricultural buildings to state-funded schools or registered nurseries, without requiring full planning permission, provided certain conditions are met and prior approval is obtained from the local planning authority.
The Class S prior approval scheme aims to facilitate the conversion of agricultural buildings to educational and childcare facilities, supporting the provision of essential services in rural areas. This helps to enhance community infrastructure and provide more opportunities for education and childcare in these regions.
By allowing these conversions under a prior approval scheme, the regulatory process is streamlined, making it easier and quicker to repurpose agricultural buildings for these important uses, while still ensuring that any significant adverse impacts are considered and mitigated.
Under Class S, agricultural buildings can be converted to the following uses:
- State-funded schools
- Registered nurseries
Conditions and limitations:
- Size Limit: The cumulative floor space of the building or buildings changing use under Class S must not exceed 500 square meters.
- Previous Use: The building must have been in agricultural use as part of an agricultural unit on or before 20 March 2013.
- Prior Approval: Prior approval from the local planning authority is required to assess:
The prior approval process involves submitting an application to the local planning authority. The authority will review the application to assess potential impacts related to transport, noise, contamination, and flooding. If the authority does not respond within the statutory period (usually 56 days), the development is deemed to have prior approval and can proceed.
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