A reminder of restrictions of land use with a D1 Classification to interested parties.

• for the provision of any medical or health services except the use of premises attached to the residence of the consultant or practitioner

• as a crêche, day nursery or day centre

• for the provision of education

• for the display of works of art (otherwise than for sale or hire)

• as a museum

• as a public library or public reading room

• as a public hall or exhibition hall for, or in connection with, public worship or religious instruction

Each Class is used by the Local Planning Authority to allow them to create a suitable balance between residential areas and those for business purposes. They have the authority to effectively prohibit a ‘use’ which would be inadvisable due to a particular property’s location or other relevant considerations.

The aim is to prevent types of business activities taking place which would have a detrimental effect on the local community. These uses are strictly controlled and if you want to change the use of a property you may need planning permission from your local authority, particularly if the new use falls outside its existing designated class.

There are important elements to know if you’re looking for a D1 property in London, or want to change a commercial building’s use. These factors should be taken into account before planning permission is granted as they will have an impact on your business:

• The likely number of visitors

• Ease of travel and onsite parking

• Transport options

• Noise pollution and local environmental dangers

For the sake of peace of mind for residents surrounding this, clearly unsuitable development, we hope the people in power will remember these conditions.