Westminster Developers will be able to apply for planning permission to remain valid for up to five years to avoid projects which are put on hold during downturns having to go through the lengthy process of resubmission, or risk being scrapped completely due to the long term uncertainty.

As developers face some of the harshest conditions seen since the 1970s when the UK's construction industry ground to a halt, the council will consider extending the time period developers have to begin work on projects which are given planning permission as members felt that it was important to help developers cope during the current economic crisis.

From now on, developers will have five instead of three years in which to start work if the council considers it appropriate, although they will need to justify the need for the extension. The decision was made after cabinet members decided that it was important to help developers cope during the current economic crisis.

-- Advertisement --

Cllr Robert Davis, Westminster City Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for the Built Environment, said: "As the largest planning authority in the country we receive more applications than any other borough and our aim is to help as many developers as possible make these plans a reality.

"I hope this concession will ensure some developers will be able to plan further ahead more easily, however, I do not think it is appropriate for all developments and will be strictly on a case by case basis.

"Of course nobody wants a return to the dark days of the Seventies when many building projects were abandoned, but on the other hand we cannot entertain speculators unduly sitting on development sites for longer than absolutely necessary."

Many developers could be granted five year rather than three year planning permissions providing a reasonable case is made for it by the applicant when they submit their applications. Applicants who have already submitted an application will also be considered for an extension provided they put their case forward by contacting their case officer.

(CD/JM)