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

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

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 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.

View Planning Decision Notice