Planning Explained

The Government announced a number of welcome changes to planning control that came into force from 24 August 2005 including:

•  Local planning authorities will now have the power under Section 43 of the Planning & Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 to decline to determine planning applications which in their view are substantially similar to proposals they have already refused twice. The applicant will have no right of appeal

•  The default expiry period for full planning permission has been reduced from five to three years

•  Economic Impact Reports are now required for major developments of national or regional importance

To help explain and improve understanding of how to use the complex and changing planning system, CPRE has launched a new website. The site, called Planning Help, will assist both those who have no experience of the planning system and seasoned campaigners.

The site explains the new planning system in the context of the old and provides up to date information on the lastest planning news.

For those who are new to planning, the site provides invaluable guides on how to respond to planning applications, making the most of public inquries with examples of CPRE's successes in using the system to protect the countryside.

The website is at www.planninghelp.org.uk .