Permitted Development is often the subject of a Prior Notification (PN) requirement to the Local Planning Authority. This is a statutory requirement which if neglected or performed badly can invalidate the development provision otherwise available.
PNs are for example required for new barns on agricultural land or for demolition works. More recently, new legislation has allowed the change of use of offices to residential, the conversion of agricultural buildings to residential; the change of use of retail premises to residential; larger home extensions up to 8m in depth; the change of use of premises to a state-funded school. These provisions are generous and potentially prolific.
The need for planning permission can be triggered with reference to technical tests but if the LPA do not act within the statutory timetable then permission can be granted by default.
Precision and timing is key to unlocking the planning potential of the Prior Notification process. This is where Smart Planning excels.