Views Needed on Planning Permission

Welsh Government proposals to slash planning red tape have been opened to public consultation this week.

Gwenda Thomas today asked all interested parties in Neath to look at the draft changes and feedback their views to the Assembly.

Mrs Thomas said: “These changes will save time and money for both Neath Port Talbot Council and for householders in Neath. Clearly for this to work best we need to make sure we have got the detail of the regulatory changes right. This is why it is so important that property owners and developers let us know their views on the proposals.”

The proposed changes will simplify the rules surrounding permitted developments and give householders greater freedom to develop their properties without needing planning permission. Building on reforms introduced by the last Labour Government in England they will replace the current ‘volume based’ system with a regulatory regime based on the potential impact of developments.

Mrs Thomas said: “This will give the go ahead to more uncontentious developments but ensure that those that may have negative consequences still have to apply for planning permission.”

Details of the proposed changes and the consultation document can be found here, or by contacting Gwenda Thomas AM’s Constituency Office on 01792 869993.