For over a decade, permitted development rights (PDRs) have been a crucial aspect of the planning system. PDRs have shown to be beneficial in responding to need – for example, regenerating high streets post-Covid and providing a tool for addressing the housing crisis.

PDRs allow certain types of building work and changes of use to be carried out without the need for a full planning application.

But while many in the development sector are familiar with PDRs for residential extensions or office-to-residential conversions, there are many lesser-known rights that allow change of use – rights which potentially pose significant opportunities to architects, developers and investors.

Understanding Permitted Development Rights
Permitted development rights are granted by a Statutory Instrument attached to Town and Country Planning legislation. The PDRs enable specific changes to be made without the need for planning permission. Part 3 of the General Permitted Development Order (England) (2015) sets out the changes of use that can be permitted. These rights are subject to conditions and limitations (as described below) to mitigate the impact on the surrounding area.