Planning authorities are being urged to take part in the second phase of a programme to pilot local development orders (LDOs).
The Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA) said planning officers can use LDOs to help kick-start regeneration schemes. The orders allow developments to go ahead with a planning application. Five pilots are already under way and IDeA today wants up to another seven local authorities to come forward for the next phase of the programme. The initiative is being managed by the Planning Advisory Service, (PAS) with the work funded by the DCLG.
“Research carried out for PAS found that local development orders could provide a positive solution for councils in a variety of development situations,” said IDeA chairman Ian Swithenbank. “In this time of economic pressure it will be councils who can take the initiative with developers to bring change, and this another positive way forward.”
The pilots are Cornwall Council using a LDO on a design guide, a partnership between Thames Gateway Development Corporation and the London Boroughs of Barking and Dagenham and Havering for a district heating network, town centre regeneration at Hertsmere Borough Council, a Southampton City Council masterplan for the major refurbishment of a hospital, while Wycombe District Council is using a LDO to consult on a policy to allow changes of use in a historic quarter of High Wycombe’s town centre. The deadline for initial expressions of interest is 8th February with funds available from April.
Planners are asked to call 07717 720682
15 January 2010
