A Class Q Planning Application refers to a specific type of application under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. It allows the conversion of agricultural buildings into residential dwellings under permitted development rights, without requiring a full planning application. This is also known as a Class Q Prior Approval application

 

What It Covers:

  1. Change of Use: From agricultural buildings to up to 5 dwellings (houses).
  2. Associated Works: Includes reasonable building operations necessary for the conversion, such as installing windows, doors, walls, or roofs.

 

Why a Structural Engineer is Crucial for a Class Q Planning Application

A structural engineer is often needed for a Class Q Planning Application because converting agricultural buildings into residential dwellings requires careful evaluation of safety and stability. Agricultural buildings are primarily designed for farming purposes, not habitation, so structural assessments and reinforcements are essential.

 

Assessing the Building’s Structural Integrity

Many agricultural buildings, such as barns, were not built to meet residential standards. A structural engineer evaluates whether the existing framework, foundations, and load-bearing elements can handle:

  1. Additional loads from new walls, floors, and roofing materials.
  2. Live loads introduced by residents, furniture, and appliances.

 

Ensuring Compliance with Class Q Rules

Class Q permits only “reasonably necessary” building operations, such as adding windows, doors, and insulation. A structural engineer ensures the conversion:

  1. Relies on the existing structure without extensive rebuilding.
  2. Meets the scope of permitted development, avoiding full planning applications.

 

Designing Structural Modifications

Agricultural buildings, particularly lightweight steel-framed barns, may require:

  1. Reinforced foundations or frames to support residential loads.
  2. Stabilisation to meet modern building regulations.

The engineer designs these modifications to ensure both safety and compliance.

 

Avoiding Collapses or Failures

Older agricultural structures often face risks such as:

  1. Deterioration (e.g., rotted timber, rusted steel, or weakened masonry).
  2. Poor lateral stability due to thin walls or weak anchoring.

Structural engineers identify and resolve these issues to maintain safety during and after conversion.

 

Supporting the Prior Approval Application

Local planning authorities require proof that the building is:

  1. Structurally sound and suitable for conversion.
  2. Not at risk of collapse post-conversion.

A structural engineer provides detailed reports with calculations and assessments to support the application.

 

Addressing New Openings and Features

Conversions often involve:

  1. Installing new doors and windows.
  2. Adding internal partitions.
  3. Incorporating insulation and heavier roofing materials.

A structural engineer ensures these changes do not compromise the building’s stability.

 

Summary

For a Class Q application, a structural engineer proves the building can safely handle the demands of residential conversion without extensive rebuilding. This expertise ensures compliance with regulations, avoids safety risks, and secures approval for your project.

Need expert advice on Class Q conversions? Contact us today!

David King Adkins Consultants Ltd   16 December 2024