Commonly Asked Questions
A change of use involves altering how a building or land is used — for example, converting a shop into a home or offices into flats. Depending on the use classes involved, this may require planning permission or Prior Approval under permitted development rights. Rubix Planning advises on the correct route, saving time and reducing planning risk.
What is a change of use and when is permission required?
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Some changes — such as converting Class E commercial premises to residential (Class C3) — may qualify for Prior Approval under Class MA of the GPDO. Rubix Planning evaluates whether your site qualifies, prepares the necessary submission, and ensures you meet all the specific criteria, including vacancy, floorspace, and location restrictions.
Which changes are covered by permitted development (Class MA and others)?
Common considerations include transport impact, access, residential amenity, noise, refuse storage, and design. Rubix Planning identifies relevant policies and prepares a case that shows how your proposal responds to each issue — whether through a full application or Prior Approval.
What planning issues need to be addressed in a change of use application?
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Local authorities often have policies to protect certain uses — such as employment space or retail frontage — particularly in town centres or designated zones. Rubix assesses your proposal against these policies and builds a strong justification where a policy conflict may arise.
How do local policies affect the success of a change of use?
If physical works are needed — such as new windows, extensions, or access changes — these may require additional consents. Rubix Planning integrates planning drawings and supporting reports as needed, and advises whether a joint or staged application approach is best.
Are internal or external works required for the change?
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Our team has extensive experience handling both commercial and residential schemes across London and the South East. We know how to frame your proposal to satisfy policy while maintaining commercial viability — ensuring the right strategy is in place from the start.
Why work with Rubix Planning on change of use projects?
"Our experience was a reliable service from Rubix and they know their stuff! The application presented very well to Council planners and it got my planning approved. Will be using again."
Sandra
"We've used Rubix Planning for a number of projects, a large extension and most recently a garden building. We've had excellent service and have been guided through the process clearly and efficiently. We highly recommend Rubix Planning a 5 star service"
Antonia
"Its always a pleasure to work with professional company. Highly recommend."
Michael
Why Choose Rubix Planning
Experience
Our Chartered Town Planners and Architectural Team expertly manage every stage of the planning process. With a proven track record across London and the South East, we ensure your project meets all statutory criteria, guiding you through complex planning submissions with precision and professionalism.
Integration
Rubix Planning offers a comprehensive range of planning and architectural services, preparing all necessary drawings and supporting statements to accompany your application. Our streamlined approach saves you time and effort, delivering tailored solutions that meet your unique project requirements.
Trust
Trust is central to everything we do. With clear, step-by-step guidance from initial engagement, we keep you informed and involved throughout the process. Our transparent approach and consistent results give you confidence, even with the most challenging planning applications.
Partnership
We partner with trusted professionals, including engineers, ecologists, and arboricultural consultants, to meet all technical and statutory requirements. These collaborations ensure your project benefits from expert input, with a unified strategy tailored to its specific needs for guaranteed success.
Changes of Use
Why Choose Rubix Planning?
At Rubix Planning, we combine deep policy expertise with practical design understanding to help you achieve planning success — whether you're extending a home, unlocking a development site, or responding to enforcement action. We don’t just submit forms — we provide strategy, clarity, and confidence at every step.
From honest feasibility advice to persuasive appeal submissions, our work is grounded in planning law, shaped by design experience, and focused entirely on your goals. We operate across London and the South East, with a proven track record of results across householder, commercial, and heritage projects.
🔹 Planning consultants who speak plainly and act strategically
🔹 Comprehensive planning services with architectural support
🔹 Experience across local authorities, appeal bodies, and heritage contexts
🔹 Clear communication, fixed fees, and honest guidance from start to finish
Get in touch today to discuss your project — and let’s make planning work for you.