Airspace Development - Planning Consultants
What is Airspace Development?
Airspace development is a growing solution to housing challenges in densely populated urban areas, particularly cities like London, where land is at a premium.
This innovative approach enables developers to construct new homes by utilising the "airspace" above existing buildings.
Airspace projects can add one or two storeys of residential units on top of commercial, mixed-use, or residential buildings, transforming unused space into valuable new housing.
In recent years, updates to planning rules have made airspace development a streamlined process, making it an exciting opportunity for developers and freeholders.
Part 20 GPDO: Expanding Permitted Development Rights
In June 2020, the UK Government introduced Part 20 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 (GPDO), a significant update allowing the construction of new flats within airspace above certain buildings.
This addition is structured to enable property owners and developers to expand housing while adhering to planning regulations, with some limitations based on building type and location.
Let’s take a look at the specific classes within Part 20 and what they mean for airspace development projects.
Key GPDO Classes for Airspace Development
Class ZA: Demolition and Replacement - If you have a single detached building that existed before March 12, 2020, you have exciting options for redevelopment. Whether it's currently an office, research facility, industrial building, or purpose-built block of flats, you can demolish it and replace it with either a new apartment block or single house. You can even add up to two extra floors, as long as you stay within the original building's footprint.
Class A: Adding Floors to Apartment Buildings - For owners of purpose-built blocks of flats, you can expand upward by adding up to two new floors of apartments to your existing building. This right specifically applies to detached apartment blocks and offers excellent potential for creating additional living spaces.
Class AA: Commercial and Mixed-Use Properties - If you own a detached commercial or mixed-use building, you have the opportunity to add up to two new floors of apartments above your property. This applies even if your building already includes some residential units, making it a versatile option for property development.
Class AB: Terraced Commercial Buildings - For terraced or semi-detached commercial and mixed-use properties, you can expand upward based on your current building height. If your building is two stories or taller, you can add two new floors of apartments. For single-story buildings, you can add one new floor, creating valuable additional living space.
Class AC: Terraced Houses - Owners of terraced or semi-detached houses have similar opportunities for upward expansion. You can add two new floors of apartments if your house is already two stories or higher. If you have a single-story home, you can add one new floor, effectively maximising your property's potential.
Class AD: Detached Houses - If you own a detached house, you can take advantage of the airspace above your property. For homes with two or more stories, you can add two new floors of apartments. Single-story detached houses can be enhanced with one additional floor, providing exciting opportunities for property expansion.
Why Consider Airspace Development?
Airspace development brings multiple advantages to freeholders, developers, and the community:
For Freeholders and Building Owners
Increased Property Value: Adding residential units increases the overall value of the building and land.
Income Generation: Rental or sale of the new flats can provide a lucrative income stream.
Upgrades and Maintenance: Airspace projects often include structural or aesthetic improvements, reducing long-term maintenance costs and enhancing the appeal of the property.
For Developers
Cost-Effective Growth: Airspace development maximises the use of existing assets, cutting down on land acquisition costs.
Simplified Approvals: GPDO regulations offer a clear path to development, reducing the need for traditional full planning permission.
The Process: How We Can Help with Your Airspace Development
Navigating airspace development regulations requires expertise in planning and urban design. Our consultancy specialises in guiding freeholders and developers through the Part 20 GPDO process, from initial feasibility studies to securing necessary approvals and developing architectural designs that integrate seamlessly with existing structures.
Our Services Include:
Feasibility Assessments: Determining the potential of your building for airspace development, including structural and legal considerations.
Prior Approval Planning Applications: Handling the submission of applications under Part 20 requirements, ensuring all regulations are met.
Contact Us to Explore Airspace Opportunities
Whether you’re a freeholder seeking to unlock new value or a developer looking to expand your portfolio, airspace development offers a path to sustainable growth with the support of our experienced team.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help turn your airspace into valuable, modern housing that enhances the urban landscape.
