Background
Class MA was introduced in August 2021. It lets buildings in the commercial, business and service use class (Class E) change to homes through prior approval rather than a full planning application. It originally carried two important limits: the building could not exceed 1,500 m², and it had to have been vacant for at least three months.
What changed
Both limits were removed for applications from 5 March 2024. Larger buildings and buildings still partly in use can now qualify. That makes Class MA relevant to whole office buildings and larger retail units.
What still applies
- The building must have been in Class E use for at least two years.
- Prior approval covers transport, contamination, flooding, noise, natural light to all habitable rooms, fire safety for taller buildings, and, in conservation areas, the impact of losing ground-floor commercial use.
- New homes must meet the nationally described space standard.
- Listed buildings are excluded, and Article 4 directions are common in London.
The council has 56 days to decide. Get the submission right first time, because a refusal on light or noise can be hard to overcome.
Want advice on your site?
Tell us what you’re planning and we’ll explain where you stand, in plain English.
Sources
- Planning Geek: Size limit scrapped in Class MA along with vacancy requirement
- Montagu Evans: Amended Class MA (2024)
This article is general information about planning in England at the date shown. It is not advice on any particular site, and the law and policy may have changed since. Please speak to us before relying on it.