Prior Approval for Demolition in Dorking, Surrey
St Martin’s C of E Primary School, Dorking
Prior approval secured under Class B permitted development rights for the demolition of two single-storey, detached school buildings of lightweight metal frame construction with cement panel cladding.
For many years, both buildings provided classroom space, toilets and kitchen facilities serving the school. They are no longer fit for purpose and have reached the end of their useful life. Part 11, Class B of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 allows demolition to proceed as permitted development, subject to the Local Planning Authority determining whether its prior approval is required for the method of demolition and the proposed restoration of the site. We prepared a clear, proportionate submission to Mole Valley District Council addressing these matters.
The approval paves the way for replacement school buildings, which will be erected using Class M permitted development rights, providing a streamlined route to modern teaching accommodation without the need for a full planning application.
Expert Planning Across Surrey and the South East
Permitted development rights can offer schools, landowners and developers a faster, more cost-effective route to delivery, provided each condition and limitation is carefully addressed. Moore Planning advises on prior approval applications and permitted development strategies across Surrey, Sussex, Kent and Greater London.
