Commercial extensions and alterations supplementary planning document (SPD)

The commercial extensions and alterations SPD was adopted in December 2025 and came into effect in January 2026. This SPD replaces the shopfront design guidance dated 2006. It supports the policies in Hackney’s Local Plan.

This SPD will guide how shops, offices, and other commercial buildings can be extended or altered. It supports good design, accessibility and the liveliness of Hackney’s high streets and local centres.

The document includes guidance on:

• extensions and alterations to commercial buildings
• treatment of plant and equipment
• how to make buildings more accessible
• shopfront design guidance
• alterations to shopfronts following a change of use
• advertisements

SPD and supporting documents

View the commercial extension and alterations SPD and supporting documents:

• commercial extension and alterations supplementary planning document (PDF 4.1mb)
• commercial extension and alterations supplementary planning document (Google Doc)
• commercial consultation statement (Google Doc)
• commercial adoption statement (Google Doc)

If you would like more information or have any questions, email planmaking@hackney.gov.uk.