As of December 6, 2023, a significant shift in planning fees has taken place, marking a notable change in the regulatory landscape. The Town and Country Planning (Fees for Applications, Deemed Applications, Requests, and Site Visits) (England) Amendment Regulations 2023, issued by central Government, bring about several key adjustments that applicants and stakeholders should be aware of.
Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:
1. Fee Increases:
- Planning application fees for major development have had a substantial 35% increase.
- All other applications have experienced a 25% fee hike.
2. Annual Indexation:
- The introduction of an annual indexation mechanism for planning application fees is on the horizon. This indexation will be capped at 10% and will take effect from April 1, 2025.
3. Removal of Fee Exemption (“Free Go”):
- The fee exemption for repeat applications, known as the “free go,” is set to be removed. However, applicants may still benefit from a free go if their application was withdrawn or refused in the preceding 12 months, provided all other conditions for the “free go” are met.
4. Planning Guarantee Reduction:
- The Planning Guarantee period for non-major planning applications has been reduced from 26 to 16 weeks.
5. New Prior Approval Fee:
- A new fee of £120 has been introduced for applications seeking prior approval for development by the Crown on closed defence sites.
These changes came into effect for all applications submitted on or after December 6, 2023. It’s imperative for applicants, developers, and all other professionals involved in the planning process to take note of these adjustments and plan accordingly.
As the regulatory landscape evolves, staying informed and adapting to these changes will be crucial for ensuring a smooth and compliant planning process. The adjustments in fees and procedures aim to strike a balance between facilitating development and ensuring the efficient functioning of the planning system. The landscape may be shifting, but with awareness and preparedness, stakeholders can continue to navigate the planning process successfully.
Embarking on a development journey can be both exciting and challenging, especially with the evolving landscape of planning regulations. At EP, we’re here to simplify the process for you. Whether you’re considering a new project, need planning permission, or simply seek guidance on the recent changes in fees, we’re ready to help. Contact us here or reach out to us on LinkedIn.