Class MA conversion saves £135,000 CIL

Viable Placemaking are pleased to have supported a developer and fellow planning consultant in navigating the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charge for a Class MA conversion, saving over £135,000!

CIL isis a charge on new development and most new development which creates net additional floor space of 100 square metres or more, or creates a new dwelling, is potentially liable for the levy.

Class MA conversions are applications for Prior Approval under the 'GPDO', for the change of use of a 'Class E' building (such as offices, shops, cafes, restaurants, etc.) to Class C3 (residential).

The General Permitted Development Order (or 'GPDO') sets out permitted development rights and prior approval options for developers which are, typically, more simple processes than full planning applications.

This application sought to convert existing offices into 4 flats in Crawley. Planning permission had been approved but the Council initially indicated that the development would need to pay the full CIL charge for the development, which would be over £135,000.

Combining our expert knowledge of planning legislation, including the GPDO, and the CIL Regulations, Viable Placemaking were able to demonstrate that the entire existing offices were "in lawful use", which is a key factor in calculating CIL charges.

As such, the existing floorspace was offset, and the CIL charge was reduced to £NIL. Our case was described to be "watertight" and was accepted in full, without any dispute, by the local Council.

Viable Placemaking was recommended to the scheme's planning consultant through the RTPI's network of independent planning consultants, which we take great pride in being able work alongside and support our fellow consultants.

"You won't find a more accomplished consultant"

CIL issues are complex and the Regulations are strict, meaning that if you commence development before considering your options, they could be extremely limited.

Viable Placemaking are a town planning consultancy with a specialism in development economics and viability, so we frequently work alongside architects, developers, and fellow planners to support with these issues, including CIL liability. If you would like to learn more about how we might work together in the future, or if you have a scheme for which you would like our support, please don't hesitate to get in touch and a member of the team will be happy to help!