Policy information sourced from Hackney Local Plan 2033

LP37 Small and Independent Shops

The provision of small A1 shop units suitable for small and independent retailers will be supported.

  1. New retail development of more than 1000sqm gross internal floorspace in designated town centres must incorporate small shop premises, equivalent to at least 10% of the total amount of proposed gross internal retail floorspace.
  2. Major developments must incorporate small shop units where there is no accessible provision of alternative shopping facilities within 400m walking distance, taking into account shops within neighbouring boroughs.
  3. New retail development will be subject to conditions to prevent the future amalgamation of units into larger premises without planning permission.

Any proposal involving sub-division of an A1 retail unit or partial loss of A1 retail floorspace must demonstrate that:

  1. The function of the unit will not be materially altered, i.e. that the floorspace of the remaining retail unit is sufficient to allow its continued operation as a shop or other town centre use; and
  2. The future viability of the unit and the centre will not be harmed.

Amalgamation of individual A1 shop units will be permitted in the primary frontages of major town centres.

For more information please see the Hackney Local Plan 2033