Prior Approval Applications

What They Are

Prior approval is a light-touch process for developments that fall under permitted development rights but where the LPA must assess specific matters before the development can proceed. The LPA can only consider the matters specified in the relevant GPDO class — not general planning merits.

Common Prior Approval Classes

Class A (Part 1) — Larger home extensions. Class AA (Part 1) — Additional storeys on dwellinghouses. Class MA (Part 3) — Commercial (Class E) to residential (C3). Class O (Part 3) — Office to residential (now largely superseded by Class MA). Class PA (Part 3) — Light industrial to residential. Class Q (Part 3) — Agricultural buildings to dwellings.

Matters for Consideration

Each class specifies which matters the LPA can assess. Common matters include: transport and highways impacts, contamination risks, flooding risks, noise impacts, impacts of the change of use on the sustainability of the shopping area, adequacy of natural light, design of the building, and impacts on the amenity of neighbouring premises.

Process

Submit the prior approval application with the appropriate fee and supporting information. The LPA has 56 days to determine the application. If no determination is made within 56 days, prior approval is deemed to be granted.

Key Points

Prior approval is NOT the same as planning permission — the development must still comply with all conditions and limitations in the relevant GPDO class. Failure to comply means the development is unauthorised. Always check the specific conditions carefully — they are strict and often catch out applicants.

Related Topics: Permitted Development, GPDO, Change of Use