31 May 2012
A radical new Right to Build will put the power to grant planning permission in the hands of communities, according to Housing Minister Grant Shapps.
The Department for Local Government and Communities (DCLG) has launched a new £17million fund, managed by the Homes and Communities Agency, to help local people get their building projects off the ground. The funding includes an ‘early bird bonus’ of up to £2,000 for those that move quickly and get their plans in early.
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Control in the hands of communities
Under the new Community Right to Build, communities will be able to approve new local developments without the need to go through the normal planning application process. As long as the proposals meet certain criteria and there is the backing of more than 50 per cent of voters in a local referendum, these projects will get the go-ahead. The Right to Build can be used for whatever communities need to make their neighbourhoods prosper and can include:
- family houses to sell or rent
- community halls
- homes designed specifically to meet the needs of older people
- children playgrounds; and
- shops and business facilities
Practical advice and support for groups
In addition, Community charity, Locality, has launched a new Support Hub offering practical advice and help to groups wishing to make use of the Community Right to Build.
Grant Shapps said: “For too long communities have had to use their energy fighting development they didn’t want rather than putting it to use bringing about the homes, shops and facilities they did. The Community Right to Build completely changes that and puts communities in the driving seat by ensuring they can bring about the development their neighbourhood needs.
“The funding and advice service being offered will provide a big boost to those communities eager to take up their Right and bring about change to their area. I would urge all communities to make use of this support to ensure they have the best chance to thrive in the future.”
Click here for more information and guidance on how to apply for funding.
