Plans to fast-track planning for housebuilders

Planning applications for new residential property developments in this country could soon be fast-tracked for a premium fee as part of new radical Government proposals. Under the new plans designed to help housebuilders push schemes through more quickly, developers would have a choice of submitting a planning application to the local council, a competing council or a Government approved organisation that would process applications up until the decision point. Councils would also be able to offer the fast track planning application service – possibly through competition pilots or potentially through devolution deals. Communities Secretary Greg Clark (left) said, “Council planning departments play a vital role in getting local housebuilding off the ground, but for too long they have had no incentive to get things done quickly or better, resulting in drawn out applications and local frustration. “These proposals will be a boost for house builders looking to build much needed new homes for hard working families and first time buyers, and for local people looking to get a planning permission for home improvements through their local council quicker.” Given that planning is consistently listed as a major barrier to building more homes, the Government’s ambitious reform proposals have been warmly…