Do you have a commercial property that you will be turning into flats? Have you been thinking about developing a commercial property?

Lime Property Management welcomed news from the Government as it announced changes to its national planning rules enabling developers to convert more than just empty office spaces into flats without the need to submit an application for any planning permission from the 1st August 2021.

What are the requirements for developing a commercial property under the latest planning reforms?

The latest relaxation of the planning rules announced by Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick reveals that all commercial buildings including shops can now be converted into flats as long as they have been empty for a minimum of 3 months prior to any developmental works taking place. Some of the other requirements state that the property must provides a good source of natural lighting and meet current guidelines surrounding “space standards”.

The Government believes that these changes will help to provide not only more housing but also to bring life back to the “forgotten” high street, whilst also helping to revive town centres that have taken another hit due to the recent coronavirus pandemic.

The future of the high street – whats next?

Jenrick also went on to state that this move would help to diversify “town and city centres and encouraging the conversion of unused shops into cafes, restaurants or even new homes, we can help the high street to adapt and thrive for the future.”

As a property management company we understand that there are many things for developers to consider as they add to or start their property portfolio, which may include converting commercial properties into residential ones.

Lime Property Management aims to deliver a service that provides value to its clients and tenants alike. If you are in need of block management for your properties, then why not get in contact with Lime today on 0208 125 4071.