Whilst February may be the shortest month, it has been packed full of consultations and further planning reform updates.
Planning news:
There are several consultations this month as part of the wider planning reform:
The Planning Reform Working Paper: Brownfield Passports has a response deadline of 11:45pm on Friday 28 February.
The Planning Reform Working Paper: Development and Nature Recovery has a response deadline of 11:45pm on Friday 21 February; and
Planning Reform Working Paper: Planning Committees has a response deadline of 11:45pm on Friday 21 February.
We have also had a first look at the spatial development strategies map – showing the possible 40 spatial planning areas. These areas will produce high-level spatial plans, looking ahead 20 years, and working across current local authority boundaries. And of course, there is a further consultation of the areas for producing spatial development strategies. Deadline to respond is the 26th March 2026.
The procedural guidance on the Part 1 Written Reps Appeals has been updated – any relevant applications submitted from 1st April 2026 will be subject to the new process. We covered these changes in an earlier blog post, but a run through of the updated procedure below:
The Appeal will be determined on the basis of the information and evidence before the local planning authority at the time of determination.
There is no opportunity to submit any further evidence.
There is no opportunity for any third party representations; and
Late or additional documentation will not be permitted other than in truly exceptional circumstances.
The majority of appeals will be impacted by the new ‘streamlined’ route. Any planning applications submitted from April 2026 should also be appeal ready as there will be limited opportunity to add new material.
Across London there have been some key applications granted. The plans for redevelopment and renovation of Liverpool Street Station have been approved, despite the protests of the Twentieth Century Society.
The plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street were approved at the end of the month.
Londoners may soon be able to swim in part of the Thames as work is underway to improve the health of the river.
WEA Successes:
Second appeal success for a homeowner in Richmond upon Thames! WEA Planning were able to demonstrate that the refused extensions would complement the existing property, local area and neighbouring building of townscape merit.
Planning permission was granted for a new roof terrace and window replacements for a flat in a Conservation Area in Hammersmith and Fulham.
A Certificate of Lawfulness for existing use was granted for the use of a property as 5 flats in Islington Conservation Area.
WEA Planning secured permission for a client after the council had started enforcement action. Permission was granted for the retention of a swimming pool and additional landscaping in a Barnet Conservation Area and Green Belt. WEA Planning worked closely with the applicant and planning officer to protect the biodiversity and openness of the site.
A Certificate of Lawfulness for proposed development was granted in Brent to confirm that ground floor and dormer extensions would be allowed under permitted development.
Other things we have enjoyed this month:
Guy Martin's House Without Bills available on Channel 4 – explored different retrofit options, cost and savings. A good overview of different options to improve your building’s energy efficiency, from no-cost habits to cutting edge technology.
WEA Planning are currently advising clients on how to prepare for the new appeal system. Contact us for more information and advice on your project today.