DCLG issues planning 'Plain English Guides' on system generally and free schools

The general guide to the planning system, which can be viewed here, covers:

• Introduction- the purpose of the planning system;
• Key decision-takers in the planning system;
• National planning policy;
• Nationally significant infrastructure projects;
• Strategic planning;
• Local Plans;
• Neighbourhood planning;
• Contributions and community benefits;
• Permitted development rights;
• Obtaining planning permission;
• Planning enforcement;
• Planning appeals, ‘recovery’ and ‘call-in’.

There are also three annexes covering the stages in a local plan, in a neighbourhood plan or order, and in the planning application process.

Housing and Planning Minister Brandon Lewis said: "“The previous system of top-down targets left residents powerless in the face of local development – our reforms have reversed this, and put people back in control.

"People are already voting with their feet, with 1,200 communities involved in neighbourhood plans, and 80% of authorities have published a local plan – this plain English guide gives all the information anyone would need to get involved in the local decision-making process.”

The guide on planning for those looking to set up a free school in their area can be viewed here. It covers:

• The 2011 Government Policy Statement on planning for schools development: this makes clear the Government’s expectation that all parties will work positively to help plan and deliver free schools, and that priority should be given to planning applications and appeals;
• The role of the local authority;
• The role of the Education Funding Agency, particularly in helping to secure suitable premises and obtaining the appropriate planning permission for a new free school;
• The planning process;
• Permitted development rights;
• An annex on the stages in the planning application process.

The DCLG noted how the guide explained how councils have up to 13 weeks to make any planning decision on a free school and, once permission is granted, development must start within three years.

“It also explains what alterations can be made to free school premises without the need to apply for planning permission,” the Department added.