The landscape of “non-planning” consents - those needed alongside or after planning permission - is overly complex, fragmented and difficult for users to navigate according to a new report published today by the Penfold Review.

 

The Review, set up to identify whether getting “non-planning” consents delays or discourages investment, published its interim report, setting out for the first time a detailed picture of the non-planning consents regime.

The Review is now working towards recommendations for change to streamline the system and reduce unforeseen delays and unnecessary costs for UK businesses and developers. The final report is expected to be published in the summer.

Today’s interim report shows that:

    * “non-planning” consents, in some cases, can make or break investment decisions. Unforeseen and unnecessary delays increase development costs and can have an adverse economic impact;
    * there is no overall system of “non-planning” consents: they are fragmented in their ownership, their purpose and their operation, making them difficult to navigate, especially for small businesses; and
    * there is overlap and duplication between planning permission and “non-planning” consents, which can add unnecessary costs and delay.

A well-functioning planning and consents business environment is an essential component in encouraging investment in development. Striving for a system that seeks to minimise the cost, time, bureaucracy and uncertainty attached to planning and “non-planning” consent applications has been, and continues to be, a key priority for government.

Ian Lucas, Minister for Business and Better Regulation, said:

“I welcome this report and thank Adrian Penfold for this important contribution in identifying potential barriers that are holding back this vitally important area of the UK economy.

“Ensuring we create the right environment for modern, innovative and sustainable development is central to the UK’s economic growth.

“Simplifying the consents system will make a significant contribution to strengthening the UK’s reputation as one of the best places in the world to start and grow a business”.

Adrian Penfold said:

“The Review has tried to identify where problems and difficulties exist and to consider how obtaining non-planning consents can be made simpler and more cost-effective.

“The key is to find the appropriate balance between the important outcomes non-planning consents are designed to deliver and the need for timely and efficient decision-making about development proposals.

“As the UK emerges from the global economic downturn, establishing non-planning consents regimes that are more responsive to the needs of all users and one that effectively interacts with the planning process is very important in helping to drive sustainable economic growth.”