What is a Section 278 Agreement?

A Section 278 Agreement is a legal agreement between a developer and a highway authority to carry out highway works.

Class Q Permitted Development: What’s Changed In 2025, And How Wollens Can Help

Understanding Class Q: A gateway to rural housing

Class Q of the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) allows agricultural buildings to be converted into residential dwellings without full planning permission. It has long been a vital tool for landowners and farmers seeking to unlock the value of redundant barns and farm structures.

As of 21 May 2025, significant changes have come into force, reshaping the scope and criteria of Class Q development rights.

Key changes to Class Q in 2025

The updates to Class Q are designed to expand rural housing opportunities while introducing new limitations:

Increased Unit Limits: You can now convert up to 10 dwellings per site, up from 5 previously.
Size Restrictions: Each dwelling is capped at 150 sqm, with a total site limit of 1,000 sqm.
Eligibility Expansion: Buildings no longer need to be in active agricultural use—only part of an Established Agricultural Unit (EAU) as of 24 July 2023.
Extension Rights: Buildings can be extended by up to 4 metres at the rear, provided it’s onto an existing hard surface.
Minor Protrusions Allowed: Rooflights, bat boxes, and similar features up to 200mm are now permitted.
Access Requirement: Sites must have suitable existing access to a public highway.
Exclusions Remain: Class Q does not apply in National Parks, Conservation Areas, or to listed buildings.

How Wollens can help you navigate Class Q

At Wollens, we understand that planning law is not just about regulations—it’s about unlocking opportunity and protecting your interests. Our Planning and Highways Team offers expert legal support tailored to landowners, developers, and agricultural clients across Devon and the South West.

We offer support in the following areas:

Strategic Advice on Eligibility and Timing: We help clients assess whether their buildings qualify under the new Class Q rules and advise on the best timing to apply.
Application Support and Dispute Resolution: From drafting applications to challenging refusals, our team provides full legal representation.
Agricultural and Rural Planning Expertise: We offer dedicated sub-services for farmers, landowners, and developers.
Legal Agreements and Infrastructure: We draft and negotiate Section 106, 38, and 278 agreements to ensure compliance with infrastructure and environmental requirements.

Why choose Wollens?

Local Knowledge: With offices in Exeter, Torquay, Barnstaple, and Newton Abbot, we understand the planning landscape across Devon.
Flexible Communication: We offer consultations via video, phone, or in-person—including home visits.
Trusted Reputation: Wollens is Lexcel-accredited and part of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme, with a strong commitment to quality and client care.