Industry News

Lower fees for developers who need more time for projects March 5, 2010

Reforms to save developers time and money when it comes to extending planning permission for building projects have been approved by parliament.

The economic downturn has meant that many construction projects are taking longer than expected because of financing issues.

In recognition of this and to ensure the construction sector grows, the government has revealed that businesses that extend planning permissions will pay lower fees than previously.

John Healey, planning minister, announced the reforms. He said developers will have longer to build new projects.

"As we work to secure a strong economic recovery, we need to do what we can to keep plans for new development on the table," the he stated.

The flexible planning permissions will save up to £69 million a year, Communities and Local Government said.

It was recently announced that under the department's New Deal for Communities scheme, some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in England have seen an increase in regeneration and housing projects.

More than 19,800 homes were improved or built between 2002 and 2008.


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