Permitted development rights for schools: what are the rules for building?
The vast majority (well over 90%) of enquiries that come in to Vertis from schools wanting to build extra classroom space, fall within the potential permitted development rules and don’t require planning permission.
With Government legislation changing in April 2021 to promote infrastructure growth, schools can now erect new buildings, or extend existing buildings, as long as the cumulative footprint of the school does not exceed 25% of the school (as it was on 21st April 2021) or 250 square metres, whichever is greater, under enhanced permitted development rights.
Previously, any outbuildings or extensions that had been done since July 1948 had been included within a total gross floorspace limit of 100 square metres. For established schools that had altered or extended their school buildings over the years, there was a good chance that they had already exceeded the 100 square metre maximum. This would have meant that many schools would have needed planning permission for any alterations and new buildings. This of course, involves more time and hassle and may have limited some schools from undertaking any new building projects.
What can schools build within their permitted development rights?
The rules for schools that want to build or enhance their school without needing planning permission are:
- Build up to 25% in addition to the school’s existing footprint or maximum of 250 square metres.
- The permitted development allowance is now based on footprint not floorspace, so you can do a double storey extension or school building if need be.
- Building on existing playing fields is not permitted. However, most schools want to build close to the school to allow for easy and speedy transition between classrooms and lessons so this is rarely a problem.
- Maximum height for new buildings is 5 metres within 10 metres of the curtilage of the premises, or 6 metres elsewhere. The height should not exceed the height of the building being extended or altered.
Building extra classrooms is easier than you think
If your new build project falls within the permitted development rights allowance, it is going to save you time and money and will take a lot of complexity out of the equation.
- You will not need to incur the expense of drawing up a planning application.
- Typically, you will be able to get going three months earlier than if you had to go through the planning process – meaning you can plough on and use permitted development rights.
- All you need is a design and quote from Vertis and to establish how you are going to pay for the project.
Designing your next school building
Over the last 20 years, we have designed and built more than 100 modular buildings for schools.
- Our buildings are compliant with Department for Education building bulletins. Everything from room size, lighting and ventilation are above and beyond what’s required. This compliance can grant schools extra merit from OFSTED.
- We know the demands for space that schools face, which is why we prioritise a swift, simple, non-disruptive building process that can run during term time.
- We are sustainable school building experts. Educators helped design our modular school buildings with your needs in mind. In just over four months you can secure yourself a classroom built to last for generations, like these school building projects we have worked on.
- Choose from one of our base school designs, or get a completely bespoke design. Just let us know what you’re looking for.
- We can help you explore numerous options for raising money for your project. We work with independent schools and state schools under local authority funding, and can help you raise finance through fundraising, donations or finance plans.
Get your free quote and example floorplan
If you’re ready to explore how you can get the extra capacity you need with a modular classroom, get a quote and example floorplan by requesting a free consultation.
We’ll visit at a time that’s convenient for you to discuss your requirements.
*Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc) (England) (Amendment) Order 2021 which came into force 21 April 2021.