Experts in Buying and Renting Properties for Use Class F1
In September 2020, the government changed the use class categories within the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) order 1987 (As amended), which resulted in the D1 and D2 markets being revoked. The uses within the former D1 and D2 market have been split between class E, F1, F2 and Sui Generis. D1 and D2 planning use classes may no longer exist, but our experience with the users of the new Class F1 hasn’t changed. Having dealt with Religious & Community groups since we first opened our doors, over the years, we have helped hundreds of groups find the right sites. Since the new F1 use classes were greenlit, we have seen a vast increase in properties suitable for educational use up and down the country. We have helped colleges, universities, tuition centres, private primary and secondary schools, as well as SEND & SEMH schools find suitable accommodation for many years and therefore understand the requirements for finding the correct site.
We understand that the specifications for educational requirements will vary dependent upon the user. We also know, however, that they will likely start with the size of the unit to ensure maximum capacity, and will include requirements for larger outside space, parking & drop-off facilities. We also know private schools will have specific location demands and that SEND schools will have demands dependent upon relationships with local authorities. We appreciate that tuition centres will need smaller units, likely more visible, whereas colleges and universities will need larger units close to public transport.
Similarly, within Religious & Community requirements, location will be essential, as will the need for car parking or access via public transport. Generally, the most important requirement, though, will be the need for large open auditoriums or halls for a place of worship to allow the congregation to attend in the same prayer hall.
Use class F1 has opened new opportunities for former D1 and D2 occupiers that perhaps weren’t as easy previously. This is mainly due to there being less competition within the market and more opportunities potentially available due to external economic factors affecting the market. It is essential, when it comes to planning permission and advice, that any tenant or purchaser satisfies themselves with planning permission as conditions, section 106 notices and other legislations can sometimes restrict the use of a property. We, therefore, advise anyone to seek advice from a planning consultant. For full information on the new planning use class categories, please visit https://bernardgordon.co.uk/planning.
We are focused and ready to assist with your F1 requirement, please contact us today.
