This message highlights the package of announcements in relation to reform of the planning system.
Planning Skills Delivery Fund
On 24 July we launched a new £24 million Planning Skills Delivery Fund to help equip local authorities to recruit, retain and upskill planners, as well as helping local authorities to clear planning application backlogs. This is an opportunity for local authorities to apply for funding for up to £100,000. The application process is open until 11 September. Guidance for local authorities is available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/planning-skills-delivery-fund-year-1-guidan…;
Neighbourhood Planning Support Programme
“The Government has committed an additional £7.1 million of funding to enable the current Neighbourhood Planning Support Programme to be extended for 2023-24. Neighbourhood planning groups can now apply for grants and Technical Support packages for this year at https://neighbourhoodplanning.org/apply/.”
Planning Fee Increase
On 20th July we laid draft regulations to introduce a national fee increase of 35% for major planning applications and 25% for all other applications. Subject to the approval of both Houses, the fee increase will come into effect before the end of the year. Further information can be found in the government response to the recent fees and performance consultation: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/increasing-planning-fees-an…;
