New use, new value.

Change of use and prior approval applications for offices, shops and mixed-use buildings — unlocking residential and commercial value across London.

Check your building ↗

Modern mixed-use London building converted to flats above commercial space

Change of use

The use class system is full of opportunity — if you read it properly.

Since the use class reforms, many buildings can change use without a full planning application. But floorspace limits, vacancy rules, Article 4 directions and conservation areas all shape what is actually possible. We establish the right route before any design money is spent.

Route check

We confirm whether your building qualifies for prior approval, needs full planning, or both.

Design & application

Layouts that meet space and daylight standards, with the full submission prepared and managed.

Approval & delivery

Prior approval or planning consent secured, then building regulations and technical design.

A finished Simplicity Designs project in London

“The strongest schemes start with the planning route, not the floor plan.”
Hakki HassanFounder & Principal Designer

What is Class MA prior approval?

Class MA allows buildings in Class E (offices, shops, gyms, clinics and more) to convert to residential through a prior approval process rather than a full planning application — provided the building has been in Class E use for at least two years, has been vacant for three months, and sits outside certain exclusions. Flats created must still meet national space standards and every habitable room needs natural light.

When do I need full planning permission instead?

Article 4 directions — common in central London and around town centres — remove Class MA rights entirely. Listed buildings, conservation areas and some site-specific conditions also push schemes into a full application. The only reliable answer comes from checking your address, which we do as a first step.

What do councils assess on prior approval?

Transport and highways impact, contamination, flooding, noise from nearby commercial uses, and the design of the whole conversion including windows and room layouts. A well-prepared submission addresses each of these up front — which is why approval rates vary so widely between applicants.

Design quality still decides the value

Two identical buildings can produce very different conversions. Window positions, unit mix and the treatment of deep floorplates decide whether flats feel bright and sellable. We design for end value, not just compliance.

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