31 December 2020
Planning
There have been a number of changes to planning legislation during 2020, particularly in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. As we now enter 2021 there are further changes in the pipeline. Here is a summary of key changes in 2020 and some other new changes that will be happening over the next six months:
The planning procedure:
In July 2020 changes were introduced to the planning to help businesses adapt to new ways of working as a result of Covid-19. This involved:
A new Government White Paper was also published in the autumn, we are expecting the results of the consultation in the next few months.
Permitted Development Rights:
There was also the relaxation of Permitted Development Rights (PDR) to allow pubs and restaurants to operate as hot food takeaways and new permitted development rights to allow:
New use classes:
A new Use Class Order was introduced which included new use Classes E, F.1, F.2. The transitional period for the new use classes means that until 31st July 2021 changes of use PDR will continue to be applied, however PDRs will be introduced on 1 August 2021.
Other changes ahead:
The Government launched consultation on revised PDR, the main points of the consultation include:
This consultation period closes on 28th January 2021.