Maddox Planning

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled transformative planning and infrastructure measures to unlock growth, including 4,500 new homes in Cambridge, £7.9bn in water infrastructure, and vital transport upgrades like East-West Rail and a new Tempsford station. A new Growth Commission for Oxford will drive further development, ensuring the region realises its full potential. This marks a proactive shift in planning policy, creating opportunities for planners, developers, and local authorities. Exciting times ahead for UK growth! https://lnkd.in/eZbHqM3Z

The government’s bold Planning and Infrastructure Bill promises to deliver 1.5 million homes and fast-track critical projects. By cutting red tape, unlocking commuter hubs, and simplifying environmental rules, the reforms aim to revitalise communities and drive sustainable economic growth. With a "default yes" for developments in key areas, these changes could begin to turn the tide on slowing housing starts. https://lnkd.in/d_bvzzvb

New government statistics reveal a mixed picture for housing supply in England. Between July and September 2024, housing completions rose 14% quarter-on-quarter to 43,026, which is a positive step for the sector. However, year-on-year figures show long-term declines, with housing starts dropping by 54% over the last 12 months. Private developers remain the largest contributors, accounting for over 75% of completions, while housing associations and local authorities continue to support vital initiatives. Despite challenges, net additional dwellings reached 232,477 for the 2023-24 financial year. This data underscores the need for sustained investment and innovation to meet housing demand in a changing economic climate. Explore the full trends and insights via our news post below. https://lnkd.in/dKrkvYhG

Well done to Matt Hill and the team for securing permission for the world’s largest living wall! To put it into perspective, it’s slightly larger than Trafalgar Square!! https://lnkd.in/eQ_8RTGC

From 1st April 2025, planning application fees in England will see substantial increases under new regulations designed to address a significant £362 million funding shortfall for local authority planning departments. 🔑 Key changes to note: Householder applications: Fees rising by 105% to £528. Applications for two or more homes: Fees increasing from £509 to £1,043. Prior approvals: Fees for building operations doubling from £258 to £516. Section 73 applications: A new tiered system introduces fees from £86 (householders) to £2,000 (major developments). Biodiversity net gain plans: Fees doubling to £298. These fee increases will not apply to applications submitted before 1st April 2025. https://lnkd.in/eTq5MzXD

Today's planning application statistics reveal a challenge for major planning applications: only 20% were decided within statutory timelines over the past six months. However, 92% of applications with Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs) were decided on time. So, it appears from the data alone, that for timely decisions on major applications a PPA is the way to go. https://lnkd.in/en35Yi2B

The Local Authority Planning Capacity and Skills Survey published today highlights pressing issues in England’s planning departments. Key findings: 91% faced recruitment struggles; 72% reported retention difficulties; 97% identified skills gaps, especially in ecology, biodiversity, and urban design. In response, the government is investing £46 million to train and recruit 300 graduate and apprentice planners. Will this be enough to stabilise planning teams, tackle structural challenges, and prepare for future demands? Let us know your thoughts. https://lnkd.in/eHzivDFP

How the Planning System is Empowering AI Innovation. The UK Government's AI Opportunities Action Plan outlines a visionary path to position the nation as a global leader in artificial intelligence. One critical enabler of this? The planning system. From fast-tracking AI Growth Zones to facilitating sustainable data centre development, the government is leveraging planning reforms to foster innovation, attract global talent, and drive local economic growth. Curious about how planning policies are shaping the future of AI in the UK? Read our latest news for insights! https://lnkd.in/ePxTPPhJ Let us know your thoughts in the comments! How can the planning system further support technological innovation? 💬

Check out our Planning Concepts Series – your go-to for bite-sized insights into some of the most commonly used planning terms and concepts. Whether you're new to planning or just want to refresh your knowledge, these nuggets are packed with meaning and practical tips that we think you'll find super helpful. Today's is on 'payment in kind' for CIL liability. https://lnkd.in/ee2zjeaj

Matt Hill, Planning Director, shares his perspective on the GLA’s recently published Practice Note on Accelerating Housing Delivery. He highlights the critical emphasis on the London Plan’s primacy over non-conforming local plans, particularly in determining the choice of viability assessment routes during decision-making. The Practice Note reaffirms that developments meeting London Plan affordable housing thresholds should follow the Fast Track Route (FTR), ensuring efficiency and consistency in housing delivery. Where local plans predate the London Plan, the Practice Note asserts its authority under Section 38, prioritising the London Plan in resolving conflicts. Read Matt’s thoughts and explore how this policy aims to drive fairer, faster decisions to address London’s housing challenges. https://lnkd.in/ebdY-i4j