Government presses ahead with PDR rollout despite objections

Moves to enable conversions of almost any commercial building to housing have been kickstarted with initial legislation to come into force on 21 April. Major stakeholders have been blindsided with the rapid and unclear introduction of the sweeping permitted development right, with legislation produced before the consultation findings were reported. The rollout comes among a swathe of reform measures, following the introduction of class E last September, with the planning reform white paper and national design codes. Communities secretary Robert Jenrick confirmed the new legislation yesterday, leading to backlash from the industry and planning professionals. The RTPI expressed “grave concerns” that the announcement had been “sneaked out” during recess and before the responses to the December consultation were released. The results of the consultation were released the day after the legislation was laid out, with 879 respondents raising concerns over loss of employment space, failure to provide affordable housing, risk to the high streets and a request for restrictions on the size buildings and only vacant properties. Size limits Following this feedback it introduced a size limit of 1,500 sqm (16,145 sq ft) of floorspace changing use. This is to apply to buildings that have been in commercial, business and service uses for two years and have been vacant for three continuous months. Less than a third of respondents were supportive of PDR with no size limit. Many raised concerns over the impact of residents on the high street and existing services. Others also said loss of larger commercial units would hurt the economies of places. Location The consultation reported a “strong opposition” to PD in protected areas. When asked if the right should apply in conservation areas, around a third supported this. There was notable objection from local authorities and community groups which called for usual planning processes to protect sites of special interest and a mix of uses. Those that supported the change in conservation areas said most high street and town centres were conservation areas where flexibility would be a benefit. The government has decided the new right will apply in those areas. Prior approval Respondents called for a number of additional considerations, including fire safety, during the prior approval application process. More than half of respondents agreed with the prior approvals, but many said they should be a minimum. Currently this focuses on flood risk, contamination and noise. Some called for local consideration of the loss of uses regarding the sustainability and vitality of the high street. There were concerns that there should be time allowed for the high street to recover from the pandemic. Other suggestions included assessment on impact to businesses, impact of residents and services and further restrictions where loss of commercial for residential would be detrimental. To send feedback, e-mail emma.rosser@egi.co.uk or tweet @EmmaARosser or @estatesgazette Photo by Jonathan Hordle/Shutterstock