Changes to Permitted Development Rights in 2025

The Government has introduced a number of significant changes to Permitted Development (PD) rights in 2025, which will have a direct impact on landowners, developers and homeowners across England.

Permitted Development rights allow certain types of building work and changes of use to be carried out without the need for a full planning application. They are an important tool for streamlining the planning process - but understanding what is and isn't permitted can be complex.

Key Changes to Be Aware Of

Several amendments have been made to the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO), including extended rights for residential extensions and outbuildings, with revised size thresholds and conditions, new flexibilities for agricultural buildings, making it easier for farm diversification schemes to progress without a full application, updates to commercial-to-residential conversions under Class MA, including revised floorspace limits and vacancy requirements, and changes affecting conservation areas and listed buildings, with tighter controls in some areas and relaxations in others.

What This Means for You

For landowners and developers, these changes could open up new opportunities - or introduce new constraints. Understanding how PD rights apply to your specific site and proposal is key to avoiding unnecessary delays or enforcement issues.

If you're considering a project that might benefit from PD rights, it's important to get professional advice early. LB Planning can help you assess whether your proposal falls within permitted development, or whether a full planning application is the better route.

Get in touch to discuss how these changes might affect your plans.