Permitted Development Rights for Schools

Finding extra space is one of the biggest challenges schools face today. Wherever planning permission is required, projects can become complicated, lengthy and less likely to complete.

However, whether the priority is additional classrooms, dining space or specialist teaching and learning facilities, building projects can proceed without going through the full planning process, by making use of permitted development rights (PDRs).

What are permitted development rights?

Permitted development rights are a national grant of planning permission which allow certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without having to make a planning application. They are subject to conditions and limitations to control impacts and to protect local amenity.

For schools, PDRs can be particularly useful because they save time and money while reducing the risk of delays. They also allow schools to respond quickly to changing demands, such as rising pupil numbers or the need for new facilities that support mental and physical health.

Key changes in 2021

Legislation introduced in April 2021 under the Government’s Supporting Housing Delivery and Public Service Infrastructure initiative, significantly expanded the scope for schools to build under PDRs (lichfields.uk; synergyllp.co.uk).

Schools are now able to:

• Add new buildings or extend existing ones up to 25% of their cumulative footprint as of 21^st April 2021, or 250 square metres, whichever is greater.
• Build to a maximum height of 5 metres within 10 metres of the site boundary, or 6 metres elsewhere.
• Benefit from the allowance being calculated on footprint rather than total floorspace, making two-storey extensions possible within the limit.

These changes replaced the earlier 100 square metre cap, which many schools had already exceeded. As a result, the 2021 update has given schools much greater flexibility to adapt their sites.

Practical considerations

While PDRs can accelerate projects, schools still need to be aware of restrictions. Building on playing fields is not permitted and developments within the curtilage of listed buildings or in designated areas such as conservation zones may not qualify. In some cases, it may still be advisable to apply for a Certificate of Lawful Development, which provides reassurance that the works are fully compliant and reduces the risk of enforcement issues later on.

Where school expansion results in increased admission numbers, a travel plan outlining sustainable transport arrangements must be submitted within six months of completion.

Why this matters for schools

Permitted development rights can help schools to secure the facilities they need more cost-effectively and with less administrative burden. Making use of PDRs can also mean projects start sooner. By avoiding the planning application process, schools typically save around three months compared with the standard route, helping new classrooms and facilities come into use much more quickly.

For independent schools facing new financial pressures, as well as state schools needing to accommodate growing intake demand, the ability to expand under PDRs provides a valuable opportunity to improve the learning environment without unnecessary delays.