Amalgamation of two units and change of use from A1 to a restaurant A3

Borough

Address

Development Type

Change of use from A1 to A1/A3, amalgamation of two commercial units into one.

Proposed Development

Amalgamation of two units and change of use from A1 to a restaurant (use class A3). Alterations to rear ground floor window to provide a vent.

4D Planning's Role

4D Planning's Chartered Planning Consultants advised the client on the best way to obtain planning permission for the change of use from A1 to a mixed use of A1 and A3. It was a unique situation, since the existing two units were A1, but the applicant converted one of the two units into A3 and amalgamated both units into one. A number of questions arose, such as: is it a sui generis use class, or is it perhaps A1-A3 or is the A1 or A3 ancillary to the other. Following a feasibility assessment, we advised our client to apply on the basis that the amalgamation will make both units into a single unit, and the nature of the business will be equal retail and food. Therefore, it was a part conversion from A1 to A3 with the retention of the existing A1.

We produced the application drawings, documents and liaised with the Council until Hackney Council granted planning permission.