Government to scrap Design and Access statements for most works

摘要

The government has announced it will scrap Design and Access statements for the majority of planning applications later this month. From 25 June, the statements will only be needed for major developments: buildings more than 1,000m2 and housing projects of 10 dwellings or more. They will also still be required for listed building consent, though the requirements in conservation areas have been relaxed. The coalition's decision has split the profession. Some welcome the plan, described as a 'more proportionate approach' to planning applications, while others fear it will leave the public struggling to understand the design intention from drawings alone.