ABSTRACT
There have been major changes to the planning regulations because of the coalition government’s initiative to reduce red tape and as a consequence of the Localism Act 2011. Previous technical guidance relating to planning permission has been substantially reduced and these changes are covered in this chapter. It is anticipated that there will be further changes to the Planning Act 2008 in due course. The process of managing the development of buildings and land is known as planning control. Councils use planning control to protect the character of an area and to provide for the needs of future communities. The Local Government Order 2006 ensures that information relating to proposed development by councils cannot be treated as exempt when the planning decision is made. The Planning Authority in a conservation area has the duty to protect or improve the character or appearance of the area and is given extra powers to control works and the demolition of buildings.
