Blog
How to (Not) Simplify the Planning System
Whenever a new prior notification procedure is introduced a Government official tells us it’s all part of the important endeavour of “simplifying” the planning system and bringing more “certainty” to the process for both developers and local planning authorities. The...
Does that come with an Annex (or Annexe)?
One of most frequent requests I get from prospective clients is for residential annexe accommodation. Considering annexes are such a regular topic for development control, it is surprising how few local planning authorities issue guidance on the matter. Is permission...
Regime Creep
I have understood that it is a long held principle the planning system should not be used to enforce controls covered by other regulatory and legislative regimes. The NPPF states this explicitly in relation to pollution control: “The focus of planning policies and...