In July 2023, the UK Government made a number of announcements about planning-related measures which could impact development in central London. They include:
Planning application fees increase
The Government has drafted legislation that will increase fees for major planning applications by 35% and other applications by 25%. A provision has also been included that from April 2025 fees can be increased annually in line with inflation. You can read more here.
Local plan-making reform consultation
A consultation is taking place on reforms to the local plan-making process. This builds upon many of the principles which are progressing in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and which were outlined in the wider planning reform consultation last December. The consultation ends on 18 October. Read more here.
Second staircases mandate under consideration
The Government has confirmed its intention to mandate second staircases in residential buildings over 18 metres. No timescales were provided, but the announcement said that transitional arrangements would be designed “over summer” to secure the viability of projects “which are already underway.” Find out more here.
