2024 has seen some sweeping changes to the planning system, and with the publication of a New National Planning Policy Framework, our Director and Chartered Town Planner Michael Bamford looks ahead to what we can expect in 2025 .
Planning 2024
The past 12 months have been an interesting time within the planning world. The run up to the election and subsequent change in Government brought a raft of changes and a spotlight on the shortfall of housing land supply across the Country. Policies on housing delivery have been updated, amended and updated again to balance pressures on the loss of Green Belt (and green field land) with the need to supply enough housing to meet the demand of the nation.
This has been overlayed with a set of significant changes which have come into effect at the same time, the most notable of which being Biodiversity Net Gain requirements. In our view, the key changes this year have been;
- Introduction of the Biodiversity Net Gain Legislation
- Changes to Permitted Development Rights – Notably Class Q and Class R thresholds increased
- Re-introduction of support for onshore wind developments
- A New National Planning Policy Framework – see separate summary document HERE
As a practice we have been on the sharp end of the changes and having taken a lead on advising our Clients on the changes and how to manage them. If you are interested in discussing any of these areas in more detail please do get in touch.
The year has seen a healthy mix projects across a range of development types, from major applications for housing, schools, commercial buildings and NHS trust projects, through to farm redevelopment and diversification projects whilst continuing to support householders through the planning system for extensions and bespoke one off homes. Our presence as a regional provider of planning consultancy across Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Yorkshire has grown and we maintain our company ethos of working with Local Authorities to bring forward development that is appropriate, contextual and sustainable for it’s location.
Our commitment to support, mentorship and professional development within the team has seen growth in the size of the team with the recruitment of Mollie and Dominic. Congratulations go to Shaun who became a full member of the Royal Town Planning Institute and best wishes to both Megan and Emily who have submitted their applications. Our collaboration with both Derby and Sheffield Universities remains an important part of our practice, supporting student placements and contributions to teaching and learning.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of our customers who have sought our advice and expertise this year. It has been a pleasure supporting such a range of projects and enabling development across the country.
Merry Christmas.
Michael Bamford, Director, Chartered Town Planner, Planning & Design Practice Ltd
