The government has issued the following press release, which states its intention to make further changes to the planning system, including permitted development rights:
- June 2020: Government press release - "PM: Build, Build, Build" (link).
Notes:
- The above press release includes the following information:
- "Under the new rules, existing commercial properties, including newly vacant shops, can be converted into residential housing more easily, in a move to kick start the construction industry and speed up rebuilding. The changes include:
>>> More types of commercial premises having total flexibility to be repurposed through reform of the Use Classes Order. A building used for retail, for instance, would be able to be permanently used as a café or office without requiring a planning application and local authority approval. Pubs, libraries, village shops and other types of uses essential to the lifeblood of communities will not be covered by these flexibilities.
>>> A wider range of commercial buildings will be allowed to change to residential use without the need for a planning application.
>>> Builders will no longer need a normal planning application to demolish and rebuild vacant and redundant residential and commercial buildings if they are rebuilt as homes.
>>> Property owners will be able to build additional space above their properties via a fast track approval process, subject to neighbour consultation.".
- "These changes, which are planned to come into effect by September through changes to the law, will both support the high street revival by allowing empty commercial properties to be quickly repurposed and reduce the pressure to build on green field land by making brownfield development easier. Developers will still need to adhere to high standards and regulations, just without the unnecessary red tape.".
- "Also announced today, the government will launch a planning Policy Paper in July setting out our plan for comprehensive reform of England’s seven-decade old planning system, to introduce a new approach that works better for our modern economy and society.".
Other Sources of Information: