You should take advice on what consents you are likely to need and how best to get agreement to your plans.
Whether you lease your business premises or own them outright, any significant alteration (such as structural alterations) is likely to require building control approval. Additional consents may be required for properties in conservation areas and listed buildings.
If you want to change the use of premises from one ‘use class’ to another — for example, from a shop to an office — you may require planning permission.
If you are occupying leasehold property, additional restrictions are likely to be included in the lease. Typically, the lease might contain clauses prohibiting significant alterations or a change of use, or these may require the landlord’s consent.