It is always better to get a unit that fits the user class consent, however it is possible to apply for a 'Change of Use' but this could be a lengthy process and could potentially be rejected. A lease progression could not wait for this process to take place before completion.

From September 2020 onwards, if a building or other land is being used in a way falling within Class A1 (shops), A2 (financial and professional services), A3 (restaurants and cafés) or B1 (business) then it will be treated as though it is being used for a purpose specified in the new Class E. Change of use to another use within Class E will be allowed without the need for planning permission. If the building is not being used or occupied for the use permitted under an existing planning permission, it will need to be brought into that use before it can then change to another use within Class E. The table below provides a brief summary of how uses will be reclassified from 1st September 2020: Click here to see a brief summary of how uses will be reclassified from 1st September 2020.