Change of Use

[sumodaz]

Hi

im hoping that someone who knows a little about planning could help me here. I am currently in a building which has B2 (light industrial) usage, the thing is i have a few spare computers which i really want to make use of so my idea is to set them up in my empty warehouse space as a bit of an internet cafe, which i understand is classed as A1. I have a couple of questions, is it essential to get change of use, and what would be the consequences if i didn't? Also has anyone had any experience of changing from B2 to A1? how easy is it?


Thanks for your help
Darren

[JoyDivision]

It would be breaking planning laws, as councils allocate areas in zones, so there is industrial, residential and commercial. Councils try to limit industrial zones mixed in with residential ones but I can't see a problem of changing use of that warehouse.

You need to speak to people at the planning department at your local council. If you don't change then I guess you can risk a major fine.

I know people who have changed use without any major problems.

[sumodaz]

Thanks for that. Ive sent off the application now, hopefully it all goes through ok. I am a little worried though, ive got my heart set on my internet cafe now.