Just call me the Michael Fish of the planning world… You may recall that I had written a few weeks ago that we have seen all the changes to the planning system. And not unlike poor Michael Fish who very confidently predicted that there would be no hurricane hitting these shores back in 1987 I fear, I too was wrong.
So, let me predict for you the changes coming:
Devolving of powers to allow elected mayors (the regional ones) to make major planning decisions – this is in addition to their powers to draw up SDSs.
Implementing legislation to set up a system of cross-boundary planning in England – you know, those ones where Councils don’t talk to one another because the development is in the other County 3 yards from the site.
Publication of a suite of planning guidance to support the new NPPF – things like policies DM1 that says you should consult with locals and neighbours…
Legislation designed to protect more major schemes from legal challenge – clamping down on those with the money to JR consents without material reasons.
Rolling out model conditions to speed the signing of planning contribution agreements between authorities and applicants – aimed at “medium” sizes sites… like a microwave meal of conditions… no negotiations, just sign.
Changes to the system for allowing alterations to existing planning permissions – Probably likely to be very helpful on consents that are no longer viable – amend and get going quick before the market changes again.
Completing roll out of the new local plan system – all those grey areas like when does the 30 months start, very practical help (hopefully).
Confirmation of locations for the promised wave of new towns – we had the first seven… now we are going to find out where the next batch will be.
Mandatory Planning Committee training and certification (to be displayed on the Council website) - Councils are still awaiting further guidance on rules around mandatory training for committee members. Government officials have said they are engaging with the sector on the issue and will announce further details in due course.
Implementation of the new system allowing applicants to pay to develop in sensitive habitats.
Deregulation of the setting of planning fees to local authorities – Guidance for Councils to set their own planning fees. That’s fine… as long as we get the service we pay for!
Implementation of plans to reduce statutory obligations to consult on applications – to be read with NPPF Policy DM3d specifically dictates that planning decisions should not be delayed by statutory consultees beyond their standard deadlines.
Publication of proposals to increase the rate of build-out on sites – If you haven’t built out quick enough you are going to get told to hurry up. If you flood the local market, that’s just tough luck.
So, there you have your 13 planning weather forecasts!
As always, if you feel you are in a hurricane of change, just call me!
Henry
07736121014