The definition of Sui Generis is a Latin phrase meaning ‘of its own kind’. It refers to a unique use class as defined by the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987, that covers properties that don’t naturally fall within any other use class. Such uses include betting offices, pubs, theatres, HMO (larger houses in multiple occupation), petrol stations, hot food takeaways, live music venues, bingo halls, car showrooms, nightclubs, launderettes, casinos and taxi companies, among others. A building in Use class Sui Generis does not automatically benefit from permitted development rights to change its use.
The planning system has a full range of planning classes from Class A1 for Retail & Shops to Class F for Local Community A use that does not fall into any of these use classes is referred to as Sui Generis.
To obtain planning permission for a Sui Generis property there is a detailed procedure you need to follow. This includes understanding the specific criteria for the intended use to understanding the local planning policies. You will need to justify the Sui Generis use classification with supporting documentation and research in order to prepare your application.
You will need to engage with the local planning officer to address their particular requirements, and possibly participate in a public consultation.
This is a complicated procedure that can become protracted, so engaging with a professional planning consultant like Plande is essential to getting your project approved.
