Lawful Development Certificate: Dwelling house to small scale home for children

Heatons are pleased to have secured another Lawful Development Certificate for the proposed use of a dwelling house as a small scale home for children. The home can now provide non-institutional care for up to three children in the long term care of the local authority.

We successfully argued that the proposed use of the property would not constitute a ‘material’ change of use and therefore would not require planning permission. In addition, we negotiated the removal of a stipulation from the original Certificate issued which prohibited the home from accommodating children with emotional or behavioural difficulties. Our stance was that this was ambiguous and did not serve a valid purpose in terms of ensuring the lawfulness of the proposed use. The Certificate was subsequently re-issued with its removal.  

If you’re looking to obtain a Lawful Development Certificate for a proposed or existing use, we would be more than happy to assist. 

Contact our team via consultants@heatonplanning.co.uk or on 0115 937 5552 for more information.