Change of Use of shop from Class E to F1a changes to external elevations and signage.

Successfully Securing F1a Educational Use: A Case Study

At 4D Planning, we recently assisted a client in achieving a successful change of use application for their ground floor premises at 35 High Street Bromley BR1. The project involved converting the space from Class E (Commercial, Business, and Service) to Class F1a (Educational Tuition Centre), along with proposed changes to the external elevation of the shop and signage. This case highlights the complexities of the planning process and the value of working with an experienced planning consultancy.

Navigating Bromley Council's Planning Process

The process of changing a property’s use to F1a is highly regulated, requiring careful consideration of local planning policies and the impact on the surrounding area. For this application, it was essential to demonstrate that the educational use would be compatible with the Bromley Council’s objectives for the high street, including community benefits, accessibility, and mitigating any potential impact on neighbouring properties and the transport network.

Our team at 4D Planning prepared a comprehensive planning statement to support the application. This document detailed how the proposed use aligned with Bromley's planning policies and local development frameworks, addressing issues such as traffic flow, noise levels, and the suitability of the site for educational purposes. Additionally, we ensured that the proposed changes to the external elevations and signage respected the area’s character and complied with local design standards for new signage. Bromley Council granted planning permission and advertisement consent for our applications. 

Why Choose 4D Planning for Your Application?

Planning applications for a change of use can be challenging, particularly for F1a educational centres, where councils require robust evidence and strong justifications for the loss of the existing use (in this case Use Class E) and justification for the new use. 

At 4D Planning, our expertise ensures that every aspect of your application is handled with precision. From initial planning advice on the feasibility, to preparing planning statements to liaising with local council, we streamline the process and improve the likelihood of a positive outcome.

If you’re considering a similar project, let 4D Planning's Consultants guide you through the complexities of the UK planning system and secure your vision successfully.

A few of our successful change of use and signage applications for Mathnasium projects in the UK

• 2023, 4D Planning was granted planning permission from Richmond Council (Ref. No. 23/0095/FUL) at 52-54 Heath Road, Twickenham TW1 4BX. 
• In 2022, 4D Planning was granted planning permission from Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (Planning Permission Ref. No. PP/22/02465) at 107 Drayton Gardens, London, SW10 9QT 
• In 2021, 4D Planning was granted planning permission from Harrow Borough Council (Planning Permission Ref. No. P/4818/21) at 413 Honeypot Lane, Stanmore, HA7 1JJ 
• 4D Planning was also granted planning permission from Enfield, at 911 Green Lanes, N21 2QP (Planning Permission Ref. No. 20/04083/FUL). 
• In 2020, 4D Planning was granted planning permission from Barnet Council at 1388 High Road, Whetstone, London, N20 9BH –  (Planning Application ref. No. Ref. No. 20/6233/FUL – Barnet). 
• In 2016, 4D Planning secured planning permission for a premises at 289 Watling Street, Radlett, Hertfordshire – Hertsmere Borough Council (Planning Permission Ref. No. 16/1929/FUL.