The Government has today (Dec 03) announced planning reforms that are designed to speed up the process between submitting an application and getting the first bricks laid.
Councils will now have to have made a decision around the building of schools, colleges, hospitals, prison and universities, where before it may have taken a few months.
Currently, these buildings may have small extensions without applying for planning permission.
The proposals also make it easier for homes to be built out of existing commercial premises, where previously developers may have been put off by the extensive planning process. This will contribute to tackling the housing shortage that is currently ongoing.
Pubs, theatres and other live music venues remain exempt from thew new proposals.
Housing Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said:
“The new fast track for public services makes it simpler and quicker to deliver the schools and hospitals we promised to build in our manifesto. We expect these vital buildings to be approved in weeks, not months and are reforming the planning system so it works for the NHS, our schools and other vital public services.
“Like the rest of the planning reforms, these changes will also help to protect and create thousands of jobs in the construction industry.”
