Change of use for converting stables to cattery

[OurBuild2023]

We currently have stables that we no longer use for horses, we’re thinking of converting to a cattery. We’re aware of change of use application but upon even asking to speak with our planning department it was clear that the officer was unsure of correct if any was required as he’d mentioned we required planning & hadn’t got it for boarding dogs which we do in our home with our local licensing authority regulations, they have advised us this requires no such planning.. So rather than keep battling & annoying the planning officer who could effectively make our lives very difficult I’m trying to find out as much as possible..questions are

1. do we really require change of use to convert animal accommodation to house s different animal type?
2. If we do, do we really require to employ an architect to draw to scale plans?

any experience of this procedure or advise would be appreciated, thank you.

Yes you will as completely different business and planners will be considering things like nuisance factor and traffic. They will have to notify neighbours et .
yes you need full plans for planning and building regs, we didn’t use an architect but the person who just does the plans and technical drawings.
you also need a licence from the council , worth speaking to them before to make sure you are on the right lines . There are government published guidelines that set out minimum sizes , heating . Lighting , type of construction etc
it’s quite complex .
you need a licensing inspection before you open then every 2 to 3 years depending on area.

I agree - planning permission for change of use will be required.
You would usually require it for dog kennels as well. The licence will only cover what is required under those requirements, not planning which is different legislation.