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Change of use from retail (Use Class E) to education centre (Use Class F1) & Display of fascia and projecting sign in Birmingham

Development Type

Change of use
Shop front alterations/signage

Borough

Birmingham

132 High Street, Kings Heath, Birmingham, B14 7LG

Before

After

Development Type

Change of use, Shop front alterations / signage

 

Proposed Development

Change of use from retail (Use Class E) to education centre (Use Class F1a); Display of an externally illuminated fascia sign and projecting sign.

 

4D Planning's role

4D Planning were instructed by Mathnasium UK to prepare a feasibility study on the prospects of converting the vacant retail unit into a new Mathnasium Centre for math tuition in Birmingham. This would be the first Math Tuition Centre in Birmingham on the high street. We established that there was a high chance of success. 4D Planning prepared the planning documents and planning application as well as the architectural drawings, to ensure the council would be supportive of the proposal. It was important to explain the business model and the advantages the business can have to the local community and wider area. Birmingham Council granted us planning permission and advertisement consent for the signs at the shop front.

This project counts as one of the tens of Mathnasium projects 4D Planning have successfully represented around the UK since 2010. 

 

 

Transforming Retail Space into a Mathnasium Education Centre

The successful change of use from retail (Use Class E) to an education centre (Use Class F1) in Birmingham marks a significant milestone in enhancing local math education. This project, lead by Elie Osborne from 4D Planning, involved securing planning permission for Mathnasium UK—a globally recognised brand dedicated to transforming math education for children.

 
 

Mathnasium UK: Revolutionising Math Education

Mathnasium is an internationally acclaimed learning centre that provides specialised math tutoring tailored to each child’s needs. With a proven method focusing on building confidence and improving skills, Mathnasium aims to bridge the gap in math proficiency among students. By establishing a new education centre in Birmingham, Mathnasium will contribute significantly to the local community, helping students excel academically and fostering a lifelong love for mathematics.

 

Overcoming Planning Challenges: The Role of 4D Planning

Securing planning permission for this change of use from retail (Use Class E) to education centre (Use Class F1) was a complex process. The retail unit was initially protected under Birmingham City Council’s planning policies, which posed a significant challenge. However, 4D Planning successfully demonstrated that Mathnasium UK would provide greater benefits to the local area by increasing footfall, enhancing education standards, and creating employment opportunities.

 
 

Convincing the Council: The Benefits of Use Class F1a

 

To obtain approval, 4D Planning developed a strong case highlighting the advantages of an education centre over a retail unit, including:
  • Enhanced Footfall and Community Engagement: Unlike traditional retail stores, Mathnasium attracts consistent visitor traffic as students and parents attend regular sessions, supporting local businesses in the vicinity.
  • Improved Education Opportunities: Birmingham has a growing demand for quality math education. Mathnasium’s presence directly contributes to elevating educational standards by providing structured learning support.
  • Job Creation and Economic Growth: The new education centre creates teaching and administrative jobs, boosting local employment rates.
  • Sustainable Long-Term Use: Given the decline of brick-and-mortar retail stores, repurposing the space for education ensures continued utility and community service.

 

A Positive Outcome for Birmingham’s Education System

With meticulous planning and strategic advocacy, 4D Planning secured the necessary permissions for this change of use from retail (Use Class E) to an education centre (Use Class F1) and advertisement consent to display the Mathnasium fascia signs on the shop front. This project not only enables Mathnasium UK to make a meaningful impact on Birmingham’s education system but also sets a precedent for repurposing commercial spaces in a way that benefits local communities.

 
If you are looking to convert a retail unit into an education centre or need expert planning guidance, contact 4D Planning today to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
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