​​​​​​​Council proposes removal of permitted development rights to protect borough’s town and local centres

The implementation of the direction would prevent the automatic development of commercial premises, for example, shops, restaurants, banks and laundrettes to residential use.

The direction would mean that the permitted development application route for residential conversion is withdrawn, and instead, a full planning application would need to be made. This would allow the Council to engage local planning polices to assess the impact on the borough’s town and local centres, before any conversion can take place.

Councillor Rich Michalowski, Executive Member for Place, Planning and Regulatory Services, says: “It’s important to support the borough’s town centres and local centres by keeping shops and services open. We want to retain the vitality of our shopping areas and help to keep small businesses serving their local communities.

“Our town centres and local shops provide essential services for those who want to walk or wheel to get what they need. It also reduces car journeys, encourages people to get out for fitness and wellbeing, and supports local jobs.

“I encourage local residents to comment on the proposals to give their views.”

What’s next?

The Council will begin a notification process from today (13 February), inviting comments on the proposal for three-months.  

The statutory notification process includes physical site notices in the towns and local centres , and a notice in the local media, as well as detailed information on our website.

The Council will take comments into account when deciding whether to confirm an Article 4 direction. If the proposal is confirmed, the direction will come into force on 13 February 2026.

Find out more and comment

To view a copy of the direction, including the plans showing where the direction would apply, and to read the supporting report see the Article 4 direction in town and local centres page.

To have your say, share your comments by email to LDF@reigate-banstead.gov.uk or in writing to: Town Hall, Castlefield Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0SH.