Planning rules are to be changed allowing offices to be converted to residential use without the need for planning permission.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/f40ab1a8-63f0-11e2-84d8-00144feab49a.html?ftcamp=published_links%2Frss%2Fworld_uk_business%2Ffeed%2F%2Fproduct#axzz2IhJsFcVF

This should come as welcome news to struggling office owners and developers looking for new stock in unique locations.

Office owners considering developing, or selling for development, will need to consider their tenancy position and whether leases can be brought to an end early, either under the terms of the leases or perhaps by offering incentives to tenants.

Abacus Solicitors specialise in all aspects of commercial and residential property, and can advise on landlord and tenant matters as well as land acquisitions, disposal, development and planning matters.

If you wish to discuss residential property investment please contact Sean Daly on 0161 833 0044 or by email at

sean.daly@abacus-law.co.uk