Commercial Change of Use Planning Permission Secured
WPS Planning successfully secured planning permission for a commercial change of use involving the conversion of an existing storage building (Use Class B8) to office use (Use Class E(g)(i)).
This project demonstrates how a former storage unit can be repurposed through a well-planned application to support modern business needs, without requiring substantial redevelopment. The approved development allows the continued use of an existing commercial building in a more active and flexible format, helping to maximise the value of the premises.
For business owners, landlords and developers, this is a useful example of how a change of use planning application can unlock opportunities within an existing commercial site.
Existing Building and Former Use
The application related to an existing single-storey commercial building formerly used for storage (Class B8).
The building was functional and utilitarian in character, typical of a commercial yard or employment area setting. While modest in appearance, the structure remained capable of supporting ongoing business occupation. The issue was not the condition of the building itself, but that the former storage use no longer reflected the most effective use of the premises.
Instead of pursuing demolition or major rebuilding works, the proposal focused on the reuse of the existing building, which is often the most practical and cost-effective route for commercial operators seeking to adapt their property.
This approach can be particularly attractive where occupiers want to:
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improve operational use of an existing unit,
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retain a commercial function on site,
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avoid unnecessary construction costs, and
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bring underused floorspace back into productive use.
Description of the Approved Development
The approved development comprised a change of use from B8 storage to Class E(g)(i) office use.
Importantly, the proposal was based on the continued use of the existing single-storey building, with the planning strategy centred on use reclassification rather than extensive physical alteration. This helped keep the scheme proportionate and planning-led, while still delivering a meaningful commercial improvement.
The development supports:
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reuse of an existing commercial building
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commercial property adaptation
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office use planning permission
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better use of underutilised storage floorspace
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ongoing business investment in existing premises
For many commercial property owners, this type of scheme can offer a realistic way to respond to changing business models while retaining existing built assets.
Planning Strategy for the Change of Use Application
WPS Planning prepared and managed the commercial planning application, setting out a clear and robust case for why the proposed office use was appropriate in this context.
Our planning strategy focused on the key planning considerations that typically arise in a commercial change of use application, including:
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the suitability of the existing building for continued commercial occupation,
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the principle of reusing an existing commercial unit,
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the compatibility of office use with the surrounding commercial environment,
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the benefits of bringing the building into a more active and productive use, and
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the proportionate nature of the proposal, with no unnecessary redevelopment.
By presenting a clear, practical and policy-aware planning case, the application demonstrated that the proposed office use represented a sensible evolution of the former storage building.
Outcome: Change of Use Approved
Planning permission was granted for the change of use from storage (B8) to office use (Class E(g)(i)).
The approval enables the building to be used in a way that better supports current business requirements while retaining an established commercial function. It also provides certainty for future occupation and investment, demonstrating the value of a well-prepared application for commercial property owners.
Why This Case Study Matters for Commercial Property Owners
This case study is a strong example of how planning permission for change of use can help unlock the potential of a former storage building or underused commercial unit.
Many owners assume that a storage building, yard building or small commercial premises has limited planning options. In practice, there may be scope for an alternative commercial use, especially where the proposal:
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retains employment-generating activity,
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fits the character of the wider commercial area, and
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is supported by a clear planning statement and strategy.
If you are reviewing the potential of a commercial property, an early planning appraisal can help identify whether a change of use from storage to office, or another commercial use, may be achievable.
Commercial Planning Consultancy Support
WPS Planning advises on a wide range of commercial planning applications and change of use proposals, including:
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change of use from storage to office
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office use planning applications
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commercial building reuse and adaptation
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pre-application planning advice
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planning statements for commercial development
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planning appeals
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site appraisals and planning strategy
We provide clear, practical advice to help clients understand planning risk, assess development potential and prepare strong planning submissions.
Need Advice on a Storage Building or Commercial Unit?
If you own, occupy or are considering the purchase of a storage building, workshop, yard unit or commercial premises, and want to explore the potential for office use planning permission or another commercial change of use, WPS Planning can help.
We can assess the site, review the planning position and advise on the most effective route forward.