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To something like this.
Class Q Regulations: 2026
Class Q, as we know it now, was first introduced in 2014 as Class MB and was part of government efforts to support rural housing delivery and enable diversification within the agricultural sector. Since its introduction, the regulations have been amended several times to expand the scope and flexibility of the right. Class MB was rebranded as Class Q shortly after its introduction.
Key changes occurred in 2018 and 2020, which increased the maximum number of dwellings permitted under Class Q and raised the allowable floorspace that can be converted to 465m² for a single dwelling, and 865m² in total over 5 dwellings. The reforms also created two separate categories for smaller and larger dwellings, allowing greater flexibility in how the overall floorspace allowance can be distributed across units.
The most recent updates came in 2024 and further broadened the right, increasing the total allowable floorspace and enabling a greater number of dwellings to be delivered through Class Q Conversions. These changes have made Class Q an increasingly important mechanism for rural housing delivery and farm diversification. Below are the important statistics you need to remember when thinking what may be a viable option on your holding.
- Maximum Floorspace – 1000m²
- Maximum Dwellings – 10
- Maximum Floorspace per dwelling – 150m²
There are also restrictions on the proposed residential curtilage of each dwelling created, which inclusive of parking cannot exceed the footprint of the dwelling.
The new regulations have changed the way that we are seeing Class Qs built across the country. Gone are the days where large dwellings were being established with 5000ft² of living accommodation, designed for the few who could afford to physically convert them. Instead, the creation of a larger number of dwellings is seeing small rural communities increase and be created on existing and historic agricultural holdings.
Class Q Extension
However, for the first time since Class Q (MB) has been introduced, applicants are now permitted to extend to the rear of the converted building by up to 4m. The extension must be single story, and it must be to the rear of the property only. The extension is also taken into consideration in the final floorspace calculations, and not in addition to.
What Does the Local Planning Authority Assess Under Class Q?
Although a Class Q Prior Notification removes the need for a full planning application to be submitted, the Local Planning Authority will still assess the proposal against certain criteria.
- Transport and highways impacts of the development
- Noise impacts of the development
- Contamination risks on the site
- Flooding risks on the site
- Whether the location or sitting of the building makes it otherwise impractical or undesirable for the building to change from agricultural use to a use falling within Class C3 (dwelling houses) of the Schedule to the Use Classes Order,
- The design or the external appearance of the building
- The provision of adequate natural light in all habitable rooms of the dwellinghouses
In addition to the above, it must be convincingly demonstrated beyond any doubt that the building is structurally capable of conversion. The Hibbitt v SSCLG appeal case is often referred to by Planning Consultants as fundamental in the determination of a building’s structural capability, however greater knowledge of the entire case can be beneficial in helping achieve a successful outcome.
The works that are permitted to be carried out under Class Q Permitted Development, as stated in the legislation are:
Installation or replacement of:
- Windows
- Doors
- Roofs
- Exterior Walls
- Water
- Drainage
- Electricity
- Gas
- Other Services
It must also be demonstrated that any proposed demolition is only partial and considered reasonably necessary to carry out the building operations mentioned above.
Though Class Q Permitted Development is utilised nationwide, each individual Local Planning Authority choses to interpret the above criteria differently and this ultimately effects their final decision. That is why it is important to demonstrate knowledge of the process while utilising historic examples and appeals that will help you get your approval!
How Class Q Permitted Development can be used as a ‘Fallback’.
In some cases, an approved Class Q Prior Notification can provide what is called a legitimate Fallback Position when seeking planning permission for alternative residential development on the same site.
The principle is that if a Class Q scheme could be implemented, it represents a realistic alternative that carries weight in planning decision-making.
The pivotal, and often referenced Court of Appeal case, 'Mansell v Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council [2017]', established that development that was permitted through Class Q, could be considered a Fallback Position that could effectively help determine a Planning Application in a positive way that would have likely been refused prior. Whilst Local Planning Authorities do accept the case in principle, again, they differ on the extent and detail in which they are willing to accept.
When proceeding down the route of this particular type of development, it cannot be understated how important it is to approach steps in the correct order. At Henderson Planning & Design Ltd, we have invaluable experience working with a number of different Local Planning Authorities on Class Q Prior Notifications, and further utilising them to achieve further development under the premise of a Fallback Position.
Get Expert Planning Advice
A Class Q Prior Notification does remove some obstacles that a Planning Application does create. However, that does not mean that they should be approached lacking detail and knowledge of the process, historic examples, and pivotal appeals which will give you the best chance of success.
At Henderson Planning & Design Ltd we have invaluable experience managing difficult and tricky Class Q applications, achieving successful conversions and also utilising them to progress with additional residential development under the premise of a Fallback Position.
We provide tailored advice, high-quality design, and full planning consultancy to ensure your development has the best chance of success!