Issue - meetings

Report HPR2021/002

The Government had recently consulted on new Permitted Development (PD) rights to allow uses within Use Class E to change to residential use; changes to PD rights and the planning application process for hospitals, schools and prisons; and the proposed approach to simplifying and consolidating existing permitted development rights following recent changes to the Use Classes Order (UCO). The consultation ended on 28 January 2021.

The Council’s response was prepared by the Head of Planning Policy and Strategy in consultation with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Development Control Committee. This report provided an update on the consultation proposals and the intended key headlines of the Council’s response.

The Chairman reported that as the consultation had only just ended, it was not possible to discuss its contents with Members. The Chairman and Councillor Bear had seen the proposed response which the Council had now lodged with the Government and had made their suggested amendments and comments directly to the Head of Planning Policy and Strategy.

The Head of Planning Policy and Strategy agreed to circulate a copy of the response to Members of the Committee and to the Renewal, Recreation and Housing Portfolio Holder.

Councillor Owen was informed that the definition of ‘quality residential development’ usually meant compliance with various policies relating to residential development. In response, Councillor Owen emphasised that the Council’s representations should say that the Government must stipulate minimum standards as this was absolutely essential.

Councillor Joel was concerned about office development being changed into residential units. The Bromley Local Plan Panel had discussed turning Bromley and Orpington into major town centres. It was therefore crucial for office accommodation and retail use to be provided within town centres rather than just residential use.

Councillor Owen referred to Berwick House in Orpington which was converted from offices to flats and the impact of this which decimated high street trade. This was a significant issue which needed to be addressed. The Chairman confirmed that concerns regarding the provision of too many residential dwellings within town centres has been included in the Council’s response.

Councillor Fawthrop asked whether the proposals applied to Conservation Areas and suggested the Government be requested to think again. The Head of Planning Policy and Strategy reported that the consultation suggested the proposals would apply to Conservation Areas and that it was unclear how current Article 4 Directions would be affected. The Council’s response to the consultation raised concern about these issues.

Councillor Brooks referred to the impact the proposals would have on youth unemployment which would increase further due to the closure of retail/hospitality and public houses. He also believed that change of use to residential would hinder contributions given to the BIDs by businesses and shops.

Councillor Allen stated that she was unhappy that Development Control Committee members had been unable to comment on the Council’s consultation response due to the deadline. Comments could have been invited via e-mail. The Chairman replied that she would seek to avoid this happening again where  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9