New Planning Proposals Could Mean The End Of Red Tape

A report published by economist Kate Baker on December 5, 2006 urges the government to scrap planning permission for householders looking to build extensions and loft conversions.

The idea behind the report is to try and speed up the building process, not necessarily for the benefit of individual householders, but to try and clear the backlog of applications so that major building projects are not delayed.

The report, which could see its recommendations introduced within two years, also suggests streamlining the process to make applications easier and quicker.

As far as loft conversions go, if the new planning proposals are adopted, it would mean that householders would simply have to have their neighbours agreement for the work to begin or, as the reports puts it, “negotiated side-agreements between affected parties.”

However, the report has come under fire from planners and environmental groups who fear that the relaxation of the laws will allow businesses a bigger say in planning outcomes and lead to chaos within communities which would effectively have no say in their own development.

At this stage it is unclear how the new planning proposals would impact on the building regulations but, presumably, the object is to allow householders more-or-less complete freedom in how they develop their properties providing they satisfy the building regulations criteria when they undertake their work.

This story will develop under the coming months so look out for more updates on this site.

Related Articles

Explained - The Difference Between Planning Permission And Building Regulations Approval

Guide To Planning Permission

Guide To The Building Regulations

Or

Click here to return to the loft news menu

Click here to return to the top of this new planning proposals page

Click here to return to the home page