Planning law changes already re-shaping Harringay's High Street

Whilst perusing the minutes of the Ladder Community Safety Partnership which met last THursday, I noted this nugget of info which those of us who are interested in how the High Street develops and changes might or might not be aware of. 

The Chair of the LCSP, Ian Sygrave, noted an important change at national level in Town and Country Planning which had been introduced by the government on a temporary basis. This means that

Any property may move at will between A1 (shop), A2 (financial and professional services), A3 (restaurants and cafes), B1 (business), without the need for planning permission (although the local authority must be notified) provided that:

The property is no larger than 150 sq m in floor space.
The change of use is for a single, continuous period of up to 2 years.
The site reverts to its previous lawful use at the end of this period.

There has already been one change of use in Green Lanes as a result: 24 Grand Parade, from A1 bakery/patisserie to A3 restaurant.

A second change in the pipeline; 471 Green Lanes is planning to become an A3 restaurant/café for disadvantaged children and young people with the existing charity shop moving into the property next door at 473.

The Ladder Community Safety Partnership is concerned at the potential loss of A1 retail outlets in Green Lanes, and the Chair stated that he had been in contact with LBH Planning to request that:

• A register of all such temporary changes of use should be maintained.
• All changes under this scheme are carefully checked for premises size.
• Developers are reminded that the change of use is for a finite period of two years only.

(which seems more than reasonable).

If you are interested in finding out more about the LCSP and/or want to join their mailing list please email lcsp@blueyonder.co.uk