Reforms proposed by the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, are set to revolutionise the planning landscape in a “once in a generation” shakeup. He says the proposed changes will speed up the construction of much-needed new homes.
Automatic planning permission
The main change will be the automatic granting of planning permission for new homes constructed within designated ‘growth’ zones. The reforms propose the division of land into three zones: ‘growth’ zones, ‘renewal’ zones (in which development proposals will be given ‘permission in principle’ subject to basic checks) and ‘protection’ zones (i.e. green belt land).
It is intended the proposals will modernise the current planning system, which sees many proposed developments embroiled in planning disputes that can result in long delays. The reforms are expected to enable developers to push on with the construction of much-needed new homes without interruption.
The new proposals also tie in with the government’s 2050 zero-carbon sustainability target, including carbon-neutrality for all new homes by 2050.
A ‘first homes scheme’ also featured within the proposals would offer a 30% discount on newly-built homes for first-time buyers, local residents and key workers.
“Shameful proposals”
The proposals have been met with consternation by some bodies and organisations within the housebuilding sector.
The President of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), criticised the “shameful proposals” that could “lead to the next generation of slum housing.” RIBA fears that the proposed lack of oversight of the planning process, together with the extension of permitted development rights allowing commercial premises to be converted for residential use, could see the proliferation of sub-standard housing for maximum profit.
Buying your first home?
Are you looking to purchase your first home and need some guidance on mortgages? We are independent mortgage advisers working across East Sussex and Kent including Eastbourne, Hastings, Tunbridge Wells, Brighton, Uckfield, Bexhill, Seaford, Newhaven, Crowborough and further afield. Learn more about our Mortgage Broker service.
Please read our VoucherFor reviews.
The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated.
It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this blog is based on our current understanding of taxation and can be subject to change in future.
It does not provide individual tailored investment advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK; please ask for details. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are those currently applying or proposed and are subject to change; their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor.
The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated.
If you withdraw from an investment in the early years, you may not get back the full amount you invested. Changes in the rates of exchange may have an adverse effect on the value or price of an investment in sterling terms if it is denominated in a foreign currency. Taxation depends on individual circumstances as well as tax law and HMRC practice which can change.
The information contained within the blog is for information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
The purpose of the blog is to provide technical and general guidance and should not be interpreted as a personal recommendation or advice.