Issue - meetings

            The Board considered a report which updated Members on changes to national planning regulations that removed, in many circumstances, the need for planning permission where change of use was involved. The Government’s intent was to make it easier for high street uses to adapt and change according to local circumstances without a planning application. In addition, there were other changes including new Use Classes in relation to learning and non-residential institutions and local community uses.

            It was noted that there was a legal challenge to both the General Permitted Development Order and Use Classes Order changes.

            Members were advised that the principle aim of these reforms, to create vibrant, mixed use town centres by allowing businesses greater freedom to change to a broader range of compatible uses was generally welcomed. The changes were generally considered to align with the significant steps taken by the Council – both prior to and since the pandemic – to support the regeneration of our town centres.

            Arising from the discussion, Members queried the impact of the Use Class Order changes on the Councils position regarding the number of fast food outlets in town centres. In response, Members were advised that these changes did not affect the Councils position with regard to the Supplementary Planning Documents.

            It was agreed that the document would be shared with Development Control Committee prior to its next meeting.

            RESOLVED: That the Board note the proposed changes to national planning regulations covering Use Classes that categorise the way that land and buildings are used.