🏨 Planning Use Class C1 in North West London (2025)

Thinking of opening a boutique hotel in Hampstead? Converting your Finchley B&B? Or curious about guesthouse permissions in Golders Green?

Welcome to the insider’s guide to Planning Use Class C1—what it is, when it applies, and how to work with it in North West London.

What is Planning Use Class C1?

Use Class C1 refers to hotels, guesthouses, and similar short-stay accommodation where no significant care is provided. Think: boutique hotels, B&Bs, and lodges—but not hostels (they’re sui generis).

Introduced under the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987, it defines properties used to accommodate guests temporarily. C1 properties typically don’t become someone’s main residence.

What Counts as a C1 Property?

Examples include:

• Boutique hotels in Hampstead or Camden
• Converted townhouses in West Hampstead used as B&Bs
• Guest lodges in Barnet or Finchley

Each borough may interpret these differently, so a C1 use in Kilburn might not get the same reception in Hendon. We always check the local Development Plan first.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Yes—changing a property to or from Use Class C1 generally requires full planning permission. This is especially true in residential areas, Conservation Areas, or when converting from C3 residential.

Each North West London borough—like Barnet, Camden or Brent—has different thresholds for what triggers permission. If you’re changing a home to a hotel, expect a formal application and possibly a Change of Use submission.

Design, Access & Building Regulations

C1 developments require careful consideration of:

• Fire safety and compartmentation
• Access routes (including disabled access)
• Parking and servicing provisions
• Noise insulation for neighbouring homes

We design all C1 projects in 3D from the start—so clients, councils and contractors are on the same page.

C1 Use in North West London

In boroughs like:

• Camden: Expect stringent heritage and residential amenity policies
• Barnet: Likely to assess impacts on character and demand for local infrastructure
• Brent: Often requires detailed management plans and transport statements

Each borough has its own quirks, and we’ve worked with them all. Our deep local knowledge makes your application stronger from day one.

Why Choose DOR Architects?

We’re not just architects—we’re North West London problem-solvers.

From initial feasibility studies to post-approval technical packs, we guide clients through every phase. Our RIBA and ARB registered team balances elegant design with practical solutions that councils love—and builders can actually build.

We’ve helped developers unlock tricky sites, landlords optimise floorplans, and hoteliers bring character to compact plots. And we do it all with 3D design clarity, detailed costings, and proper planning know-how.

FAQs About Use Class C1

Let’s Make It Happen

Thinking of developing a C1 property in North West London? DOR Architects brings clarity, creativity and compliance to every project. We’re trusted by developers, homeowners and investors alike.

📞 Book your free consultation today

Email: info@dorarch.com
Phone: 020 XXXX XXXX