Time-limited permitted development right comes into force
04/23/2020
Permitted Development (PD) Rights have been updated
07/23/2020
Covid-19 Update: England Councils and Planning Status
As of 30th April 2020, England councils continue with ‘business as usual’ despite some delays. The Covid-19 update highlights that large-scale planning applications and those requiring site visits or committee reviews are particularly affected. Although some boroughs have backlogs due to staff furloughs, the standard target of 8 weeks for determining applications remains. Planning officers are working from home, and applications are still progressing.
Construction Sites and Industry Impact
Construction sites in England remain operational, unlike in Scotland. Progress is being made, though the Covid-19 update indicates a general slowdown due to uncertainty. Some housebuilders have paused their projects temporarily.
Government Changes to Planning During the Pandemic
In response to the pandemic, the government has proposed changes to the planning system. These include extending permitted development rights, specifically for conversions to D1 medical uses. The update also allows pubs and restaurants (A3) to convert to hot food takeaways (A5) under Permitted Development during the Covid-19 pandemic. This measure aims to support businesses and assist those needing to self-isolate or avoid social contact.
Permitted Development Rights During Covid-19
The new regulations permit businesses to change from a restaurant (A3) to a hot food takeaway (A5) for up to 12 months without needing additional planning permission. However, the serving of alcoholic drinks remains subject to existing licensing laws. Businesses must notify the local planning authority about the new use through a Prior Approval application.
New Measures for the Construction Industry
On 23rd June, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP announced new measures to boost construction. The Covid-19 update includes extending planning permission deadlines, speeding up planning appeals, and allowing more flexible working hours. Permissions expiring between the start of lockdown and the end of this year will be extended to 1 April 2021 to mitigate disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Impact on Residential Permissions
The Covid-19 update reveals that over 400 residential permissions, providing more than 24,000 new homes, were at risk of expiring by the end of this month. The new measures aim to help these developments continue as the economy recovers.
4D Planning: Support and Updates
4D Planning is monitoring the situation closely and will provide important updates as necessary. For more information or to discuss your project, 4D Planning is open for business. Contact us at 020 3150 0183 or email enquiries@4dplanning.com.
