- the present use if this use has been given planning permission and no break in this use has occurred;

- the present use if this use has been operational for 10 years and this can be proved by documentary or other evidence (To regularise this type of use if no planning permission exists you should apply for a certificate of lawful use);

- a different use covered by a planning permission given within the last 5 years as yet not implemented;

- a different use within the same class of the Use Classes Order 1987 as the present use. (Certain changes of use as outlined in the Use Classes Order 1987 may be permitted under the General Permitted Development Order 1995 and do not require further permission);

- if vacant, the last use, provided that use has not been abandoned.   In considering abandonment, the Local Planning Authority will take account of

- the physical condition of the building

- the period of non-use

- any intervening uses

- the owners intentions.