Planning red tape cut for Arun homeowners

Changes to planning rules from beginning of this month mean that many homeowners no longer need planning permission for smaller projects.

The new "permitted development" regulations mean that in many cases planning permission is not needed from Arun for straightforward home improvements such as some loft conversions or small extensions.

The new rules aim to cut down on the amount of red tape for householders, while still protecting the interests of neighbours, the wider community and the environment.

Several more changes are set out in the new regulations, including:

* stricter rules for householder developments in conservation areas, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and World Heritage sites;

* new rules to protect neighbouring properties from intrusion, such as the requirement to use obscured glass in side-facing windows on developments above one storey high;

* permission for large domestic extensions will look at height and level of projection, rather than the overall volume of the extension;

* encouraging the use of permeable surfaces that allow better drainage, to try and reduce the risk of surface water flooding;

* no restriction on installing solar panels on buildings in conservation areas, to encourage more take-up of renewable energy sources.

The changes are expected to reduce by up to 25 per cent the number of people applying to Arun for planning permission for work on their homes. The new regulations do not affect the need for building regulations approval.

Full details of the new rules and can be found on the Planning Portal website www.planningportal.gov.uk/house '” where householders can also find out whether their development will need planning permission.

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