This is a very hard question to answer, mainly because the planning process and all of its many components are being updated and changed on a regular basis. It is difficult to keep track of the latest developments. Nevertheless, 4D Planning Consultants are constantly following the latest developments and changes to the planning system, and are able to share this information with you. To discuss any queries you may have, or development ideas or proposals in the pipeline, please give us a ring, and we will be more than happy to discuss.
Every London Borough has recently (or should have recently) replaced their UDPs (Unitary Development Plan) with a new LDF (Local Development Framework). This contains a suite of folders and documents that form part of the Local Authorities Development Plan for the Borough for the next 10-15 years. Every Borough has its own rules, regulations and policies, and 4D Planning have studied, and continue to study these documents on a regular basis to ensure that we are able to offer the most up-to-date service for our clients.
What Reforms Are Coming to the UK Planning System in 2025?
In 2025, the UK planning system is undergoing significant reforms to address housing shortages, accelerate development, and streamline processes for critical infrastructure projects. The Labour government aims to deliver 1.5 million homes during this Parliament by simplifying planning applications, introducing a new standard method for assessing housing needs, and reforming the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP) regime to reduce delays. Additionally, changes to Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) compensation are being proposed to cap land values and facilitate the delivery of affordable housing and vital social infrastructure.
The reforms also include empowering local authorities through the English Devolution Bill, granting mayors and combined authorities greater control over long-term spatial planning and individual applications. Structural changes are planned to consolidate two-tier local governments into a unitary system for improved efficiency.
Comprehensive Chronological Summary of Changes to the UK Planning System (2020–2024)
The UK planning system has undergone significant changes since 2020, driven by the need to address housing shortages, economic challenges, and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Below is a detailed, chronological summary of these changes put together by our team at 4D Planning. The summary includes key dates and significant alterations:
2020: Initial Reforms and COVID-19 Adjustments
Key Dates and Changes
- March 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic began to significantly impact the UK, prompting temporary measures to support businesses and adapt planning processes.
- The Business and Planning Act 2020 introduced streamlined procedures, such as temporary pavement licences for outdoor dining and automatic extensions for planning permissions.
- The pandemic also highlighted the need for flexibility in planning to accommodate changing societal and economic demands.
- August 2020: The government published the "Planning for the Future" White Paper, proposing a major overhaul of the planning system. Key objectives included:
- Simplifying the planning process.
- Increasing housing supply.
- Introducing a zoning-based system to categorise land into "growth," "renewal," and "protected" areas.
- September 2020: The Use Class Changes 2020/21 came into effect, consolidating and simplifying use classes to provide greater flexibility for property owners and developers. Key changes included:
- The introduction of Class E (Commercial, Business, and Service), which merged several previous classes (A1, A2, A3, B1) into one.
- The creation of Class F1 (Learning and Non-Residential Institutions) and Class F2 (Local Community Uses).
- Certain uses, such as pubs, hot food takeaways, and cinemas, were reclassified as sui generis, requiring full planning permission for changes.
2021: Continued Reforms and Policy Updates
Key Dates and Changes
- July 2021: The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was updated to emphasise:
- High-quality design and the introduction of the National Model Design Code.
- Environmental sustainability and biodiversity net gain.
- A focus on "beauty" in new developments.
- 2021: Expansion of Permitted Development Rights (PD):
- New rights allowed the conversion of Class E properties (e.g., shops, offices) into residential use under Class MA, subject to prior approval.
- This aimed to address housing shortages by repurposing underused commercial spaces.
2022: Legislative and Environmental Adjustments
Key Dates and Changes
- 2022: Introduction of the Environment Act 2022, which mandated:
- Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill:
- Proposed reforms to support economic growth and regeneration, including changes to local plans and infrastructure delivery.
- Aimed to decentralise decision-making and empower local authorities.
2023: Ongoing Revisions and Consultations
Key Dates and Changes
- December 2023: The government proposed reversing certain changes to the NPPF, particularly regarding housing need assessments. This was part of an effort to provide clarity and consistency in planning policies.
- The government has announced in December 2023 that rooftop solar panels can be installed on homes and businesses through permitted development rights.
- 2023: Continued consultations on planning reforms, including:
- Adjustments to the standard method for assessing housing needs.
- Urban uplift policies to encourage development in cities.
2024: Recent Developments and Future Directions
Key Dates and Changes
- 2024: The government reaffirmed its commitment to delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029, emphasising the need for a pro-growth planning framework.
- March 2024: A consultation titled "An Accelerated Planning System" was launched to streamline and expedite planning processes. Proposed changes include:
- Faster application processing.
- Simplified local plan preparation.
- Planning Reform Day 2024: Sweeping changes to England's planning policy framework were announced, focusing on housing delivery and economic growth.
- Lawful Development Applications for Established Use: Lawful development applications as of 25th April 2024 require evidence of 10 years for all developments. The 4 year rule is no longer applicable for applications which include evidence after 25th April 2024.
Key Themes and Implications
Flexibility and Simplification
The introduction of Class E and expanded PD rights reflect a shift towards greater flexibility, allowing property owners to adapt to UK market demands without lengthy planning processes. This has been particularly beneficial for high streets and urban centres.
Environmental Sustainability
The Environment Act 2022 and updates to the NPPF highlight a growing emphasis on sustainability, biodiversity, and climate resilience in planning decisions.
Economic Growth and Regeneration
Reforms such as the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill aim to support economic recovery and address regional disparities, particularly in housing and infrastructure.
Challenges
- Loss of Local Control: Critics argue that expanded PD rights and simplified use classes reduce the ability of local authorities to manage development effectively.
- Community Impact: Concerns have been raised about the potential loss of community spaces and overconcentration of certain uses, such as hot food takeaways.
4D Planning will continue to monitor changes to the planning system and provide our clients and readers further information and updates on this page.
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