October 13, 2011
NLP, working in a consortium with architectural and other technical advisors, has launched a report exploring the opportunities created by the Government’s proposals to release changes of use from commercial to residential space from the planning process.
Following the Government’s consultation on creating new permitted development rights, the report offers advice on realising the conversion potential of redundant or outdated commercial buildings for housing; from finding the right property, to understanding structural and design challenges, to identifying potential planning pitfalls, to creating enduring residential properties.
Whether or not changes to permitted development rights are made, it is clear that the positive shift in policy will mean achieving such developments becomes a real opportunity in planning terms. We were delighted to contribute to this report which provides the practical guidance needed to assist in bringing these opportunities to fruition.
The consortium was led by Child Graddon Lewis architects and, alongside NLP, included Gifford engineers, and Robinson Low Francis cost consultants.
NLP contacts – Matthew Spry or Nicola Furlonger 020 7837 4477 mspry@nlpplanning.com / nfurlonger@nlpplanning.com