Cameron and Clegg announce planning reforms to cut the ‘dither’

PRIME Minister David Cameron and deputy Nick Clegg attempted to relaunch the government again yesterday with a promise of a new focus which would boost growth and “cut through the dither.”

The announcement came on the first day since the two men completed a reshuffle of the government which is meant to breath new life back into the coalition.

The new drive is aimed at boosting growth in England with an assault on planning laws, making it easier for businesses to develop, and an expansion of a scheme for first-time buyers.

Mr Cameron pledged to get the planning system “off people’s backs” and revive the economy by easing restrictions for homes and businesses.

Tens of thousands of families will be allowed to extend their properties by up to eight metres without gaining full permission, and rules on shops and offices expanding will be loosened.

Obligations for including 
affordable housing in new developments could also be waived where they are holding projects back.

But Labour insisted the government was “kidding itself” that the package would shake the country out of its malaise.

Under the changes, full planning permission – required for extensions of more than a few metres from the rear wall of any home – will only now be needed for those beyond six or eight metres, depending on whether it is terraced or detached.

Businesses will be able to expand shops by 100 square metres and industrial units by 200 square metres.

Mr Cameron said: “This government means business in delivering plans to help people build new homes and kick-start the economy. We’re determined to cut through the bureaucracy that holds us back.

“That starts with getting the planners off our backs. Getting behind the businesses that have the ambition to expand.

“And meeting the aspirations of families that want to buy or improve a home.”