BNG Self build classification on adaptive repurposing of a buildingBNG Self build classification on adaptive repurposing of a buildinghttps://khub.net/c/message_boards/find_thread?p_l_id=53683759&threadId=12588749602026-07-26T04:26:41Z2026-07-26T04:26:41ZBNG Self build classification on adaptive repurposing of a buildingJohn Butterworthhttps://khub.net/c/message_boards/find_message?p_l_id=53683759&messageId=12588749592025-10-30T13:35:01Z2025-10-30T13:35:00Z<p>Hi all.</p>
<p>A client has purchased a victorian house, which has previoulsy been converted into 3 flats.</p>
<p>Under the LAPD advice we submitted for a full plans application for change of use with small rear extension with a view to deconverting the property back into a single dwelling house. This was succesful however the Planning Officer is insisting on BNG as a condition. </p>
<p>The site is 1 building (existing victorian house), site area of less than 0.5 ha and is being built and designed by the client with the sole intent of living there as a family home. We would like to claim exemption from the BNG issues as it appears to be tagged on through a poor choice of bureocracy.</p>
<p>The Planning officer is insisting that an existing building conversion cannot constitute a self build. However the Housing act states "building or completion" of a new home which I understand creates an umbrella scenario for other projects such as barn conversions and the like.</p>
<p>In one email the Planner has suggest that we should have applied for change of use and then subsequently a house holder app for the rear, great hindsight but not the advice given by the department initially.</p>
<p>They have also suggested that the clients need to live in the property for a 'period' and then reapply for householder permission. </p>
<p>All of which seem time consuming and potentially costly to the client.</p>
<p>I should say that CIL has no issues with this, we have also completed similar projects in other local authorites with absolutely no issues.</p>
<p>Has anyone got any experience of adaptive reuse under the housing act in terms of claiming exemptions under BNG on an existing property. </p>
<p>Many thanks.</p>
<p>John.</p>John Butterworth2025-10-30T13:35:00Z