# What happened to Class D2 planning use?

Canonical source: https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-d2/

The former Class D2 was split between Class E, Class F2 and sui generis uses in England in 2020.

## The detail.

For example, many indoor gyms are now E(d), outdoor sport and swimming pools are within relevant F2 categories, and cinemas are sui generis. Mixed or ancillary activities need an individual assessment.

This guidance applies to England. The lawful use, conditions, any proposed works and the facts of the operation should be checked for each property.

## What to check.

-   Identify what the premises were lawfully used for and what is proposed.
-   Check the planning permission, conditions and any proposed works.

A planning adviser or the local planning authority can advise on the specific property and proposal.

## Sources.

-   [Planning Portal: use classes in England](https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/change-of-use/use-classes/)
-   [GOV.UK: when is permission required?](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/when-is-permission-required)
-   [2020 use-class changes: legislation](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/757/made)

Sources reviewed 6 November 2026. General information, not a planning opinion.

## Related questions.

-   [What planning use class is a gym?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/gym/)
-   [What planning use class is a swimming pool?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/swimming-pool/)
-   [What planning use class is a cinema?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/cinema/)
-   [What are Class F planning uses?](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/class-f/)

[See all planning use class guides](https://rivermarkproperty.com/guides/planning-use-classes/)

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