I am sure that we can all agree that 2020 will go down in the history books…and we can all remember why…the introduction of Use Class E. This of course, is no longer breaking news in the industry. It was back in September 2020 that the former Class A1, A2, A3, and parts of B1, D1 and D2 uses were amalgamated. This allowed units, that were previously separated under the Use Classes Order to change between operations within Class E, without planning permission. There were of course, caveats to that…use restrictions the key example. But for the first time a coffee shop could transform into an office (excluding external alterations), without the need for a thumbs up from the Local Planning Authority.

2020 also brought with it the bewildering circumstances of Covid – 19. Coronavirus has, in countless ways, affected everyone in varying extremities, but has had a lasting effect on many of the businesses who fall under Class E. The hospitality industry for example, suffered complete closures at the heart of the pandemic and as of May last year still reported revenue 25% lower than pre Covid. The pandemic also saw offices, another Class E member, become temporarily redundant while we acquainted ourselves with virtual meetings and the kitchen table.

However, with life appearing to be returning back to normality, it could be said that in planning terms, Class E has been a catalyst for many fallen businesses, to return. For example, Iceni Projects has recently secured planning permission for a number of external alterations of former B1 office units, which has allowed for various independent restaurants to set up shop without the need for a change of use application. The current proposals for the former Debenhams on Oxford Street promoting flexible Class E is an example of where a wide range of uses can be incorporated, as retail adjusts to change in demand.

That said, it is important to recognise that just because in planning terms certain uses can be installed without planning permission, their suitability for specific areas may be debatable. As our economy grows back from the pandemic, the significance of wider strategic placed based thinking to ensure growth is positive, of benefit to the wider economy, protecting and enhancing the attractiveness of an area will be of the utmost importance.

Here’s hoping however, that Planning and Class E will be recognised as a positive contribution towards the economy’s recovery from the year that was 2020.