The Killian Pretty review released today produces some strong recommendations on improving the process of dealing with planning applications. The reviewers took on many of RIBA's suggestions including:
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Making the information requirements for all planning applications clearer, simpler and more proportionate, removing unnecessary requirements, particularly for small scale householder and minor development, including:
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removing the detailed requirements for the content of a Design and Access Statement from statutory regulation;
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revising national guidance on the validation of planning applications to emphasise that local planning authorities must not ask for more information than they need
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Abolishing the current timescale performance target for local authorities, currently within eight to 13 weeks from receipt of the planning application. The review suggests an indicator which will offer more of a qualitative indicator than the existing quantitive model.
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The firm recommendation for regular pre-application discussions for all major developments. The RIBA believes this has clear potential for improving design quality of schemes, especially if accompanied by systematic design review.
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Restricting unnecessary planning conditions demanded by a local authority and making the process of discharging conditions clearer and more efficient. This change will ensure the planning process is easier to undertake.
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Expanding permitted development rights to include minor non-residential applications
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Providing training on planning matters for all councillors.
Sunand Prasad, RIBA President said of the announcement: "If well implemented these conclusions from David Pretty and Joanna Killian will significantly improve the operation of the planning system, both in terms of certainty and speed and design quality. However, such an improvement will require greater resourcing of the planning system and the challenge to Government is to adequately equip planning authorities to deliver these improvements."