RES exam question on Planning & Development: An owner converts a ground-floor shop into a childcare centre
Case study — An owner converts a ground-floor shop into a childcare centre. No structural building works are carried out. The use changes from retail to childcare. Evaluate the statements: (i) A material change of use is 'development' under the Planning Act (ii) Planning permission is generally required even without building works (iii) 'Develop' under s3(1) includes making a material change of use (iv) No approval is needed because nothing is built Which statements are CORRECT?
- A(i), (ii) and (iii) only
- B(i) and (iv) only
- C(ii), (iii) and (iv) only
- D(i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
Show answer & explanation
Answer
A. (i), (ii) and (iii) only
Explanation
(i) is correct because a material change of use falls within 'development' under the Planning Act. (ii) is correct because planning permission is generally required even when no building works are done. (iii) is correct because 'develop' under s3(1) includes making a material change of use. Hence (i), (ii) and (iii).
Why the other options are wrong
- (iv) is wrong: approval can still be needed even though nothing is built, precisely because the use has materially changed (retail to childcare).
Study the concept behind this question: Planning & Development Control: URA Master Plan, Zoning, GFA
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