Revised planning rules come into force next month
A raft of measures aimed at speeding up and simplifying the planning process are a significant step in the right direction.
That's the view of Cabinet Office Minister, David Ashford, ahead of changes coming into force on 1 March.
Earlier this month, Tynwald approved the Town and Country Planning (Permitted Development) Order 2025.
The changes update and replace the Town and Country Planning (Permitted Development) Order 2012.
They are the result of a review of permitted development allowances which was undertaken by the Cabinet Office and supported by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.
The revised planning rules will also bring down the cost of various home improvements and small building projects, by eliminating the need to submit a planning application.
Mr Ashford told Manx Radio he believes the changes will be widely welcomed:
Amendments designed to help speed up small building projects and home improvements include:
- Increasing works that can be undertaken in Conservation Areas including replacement windows and - in back gardens - sheds, greenhouses, extensions and air source heat pumps
- New provisions for porches, dormers and chimney pipes
- Providing powers for Local Authorities to install play equipment and public art, and to hold events
The Order also expands permitted development for operations which can be undertaken at the Grandstand/Nobles Park during events.
Permitted development allows small and uncontroversial projects to proceed without planning approval.
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