Glossary definition
Use Class
The classification system under the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order that groups similar land and property uses together. Key classes include Class C3 (dwelling houses), Class C4 (HMOs), Class E (commercial, business, and service), and Class F (local community and learning).
Definition
The classification system under the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order that groups similar land and property uses together. Key classes include Class C3 (dwelling houses), Class C4 (HMOs), Class E (commercial, business, and service), and Class F (local community and learning). Changes of use within the same class do not require planning permission, while changes between classes may benefit from permitted development rights or require a full planning application.
See also
Closely related terms.
Planning Permission
Formal consent from the local planning authority required before carrying out most types of development, including new construction, material changes of use, and significant alterations to existing buildings.
Permitted Development Rights
Automatic planning permissions granted by Parliament through the General Permitted Development Order, allowing certain building works and changes of use without needing to apply for planning permission from the local authority.
HMO (House in Multiple Occupation)
A property rented out to three or more tenants who form two or more separate households and share a kitchen, bathroom, or toilet.
Article 4 Direction
A direction made by a local planning authority that withdraws specific permitted development rights in a defined area.
Further reading
Guides that touch this term.
Guide
Legal Due Diligence in Development Finance: What Solicitors Check
Legal due diligence is the backbone of every development finance transaction. This guide explains what solicitors investigate, common issues that delay completions, and how to prepare your legal pack.
9 min read readReadGuide
How Does Development Finance Work? A Complete Guide for UK Developers
A ground-up guide to how development finance is structured in the UK, covering loan mechanics, drawdown schedules, monitoring surveyors, and what lenders look for in your application.
5 min read readRead
Where it shows up
Finance products using this term.
Service
Development Finance
Senior debt funding for ground-up residential and commercial developments.
From 6.5% p.a. · Up to 65-70% LTGDVReadService
Refurbishment Finance
Funding for light and heavy refurbishment projects including conversions.
From 0.65% p.m. · Up to 75% LTVReadService
Commercial Mortgages
Long-term finance for commercial property acquisition and refinancing.
From 5.5% p.a. · Up to 75% LTVRead
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