permitted development rights

The Building Better, Building Beautiful (BBBB) Commission has recommended the creation of a permanent role for a ‘champion for place’ in the government’s cabinet.

The extension of permitted development rights to allow homeowners to extend their properties without a full planning application – as well as high street conversions to offices and homes – has come into permanent effect.

‘Clear accountability is perceived to be missing’ from the English planning system and consultation is often considered ‘tokenistic’. Democratic safeguards for the strategic planning process should be introduced to address this.