Consultation is open from 3 August 2026 9:00am to 25 September 2026 5:00pm
Policy WS/MU: Meanwhile uses
1. As part of phased development of and within vacant or underused buildings where a permanent use has not yet been secured, proposals will be supported for appropriate meanwhile uses.
2. All phased major developments will be required to submit an appropriate Meanwhile Use Feasibility Study and if feasible, an appropriate Meanwhile Strategy.
3. Proposals for meanwhile uses must contribute positively to the local area, support community and cultural needs, and enhance the vibrancy and functionality of the site during the interim period.
4. Planning applications for meanwhile uses must demonstrate that a proposed meanwhile use is compatible with surrounding existing uses and will not inhibit the future permanent development of the site and the delivery of the sites long-term development objectives.
Supporting information
6.66. A meanwhile use is the temporary use of a site, building or unit for a duration of time before it is turned into a more permanent end state, providing an active and potentially beneficial use on what would otherwise be vacant and awaiting development. Examples of meanwhile uses include pop-up shops, markets and cafes, artist studios, cultural spaces, community meeting places and leisure facilities, short-term office and workshop units, sustainable energy generation, and temporary housing.
6.67. Some major developments can take years to complete. The provision of temporary spaces, structures and activity can help to create a sense of community and prevent the ‘new town blues’ that can arise in the early stages of development. Meanwhile uses can also support local start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises requiring affordable, flexible space, and contributing to the developing pipeline of businesses that could potentially permanently locate in the area in the future. On a smaller scale, meanwhile uses can provide temporary uses in vacant and underused buildings while the longer-term use is being resolved and these uses can support continuity of provision during redevelopment.
6.68. Applicants are encouraged to consider opportunities for meanwhile uses in the early discussions on a development, particularly at the pre-application stage in order to fully explore the feasibility and opportunities, demonstrated through a meanwhile use strategy to maximise these benefits. Applicants are also encouraged to engage with community and cultural stakeholders to develop business models that seek to address gaps in existing infrastructure such as cultural and creative arts.
6.69. It is expected that a meanwhile use strategy will include but is not limited to:
- The proposal;
- The intended duration and phasing of the use;
- Public and stakeholder engagement;
- Projected social and environmental benefits and contribution to placemaking;
- Management and maintenance arrangements;
- Measures to ensure accessibility, safety, and inclusivity; and
- Move-on strategy including exit and transition arrangements.
Tell us what you think
For further guidance on how to submit comments, please see the Representation Guidance Note.
All comments must be received by 25 September 2026 at 5pm.