Planning for Impact: How Development Frameworks Punch Above Their Weight
I’ve worked as a town planner in Manchester for more than 21 years and have seen the city region transform at an astonishing rate.
It’s not just the city that has changed: the nation’s approach to planning has too.
Lifting the Lid on the Places for Everyone Plan
After nearly 10 years in the making, Greater Manchester’s spatial plan was adopted in March.
Much of the focus has been on strategic development.
But what does the plan mean for land outside these strategic allocations?
The Changing of the Guard: a Closer Look at Labour’s Promises for Planning and Development
We’re waking up to a new, Labour-led government, the first in 14 years. So what, if anything, can we expect will change for the built environment?
There have been promises-a-plenty and lots of encouraging statements indicating a pro-growth approach. If we are to believe this Times article, we should expect to hear at least three different housing announcements in the next fortnight, giving an indication of the new government’s focus and commitment to the sector.
Women Taking Up Space and Predictions for East Manchester
Prior to my first foray to MIPIM, I didn’t have any set expectations about what it would be like. With all the enthusiasm of a Swiftie groupie, I went with an open mind and a determination to get the most out of it.
That being said, it was hard to dismiss the reports from veteran MIPIM delegates that the conference has historically been heavily dominated by men.
House or Home? Use Class Confusion for Inclusive Community-Based Housing
Recent headlines reveal a concerning trend: the prolonged detention of adults and children with Special Educational Needs in mental health units as a result of a shortage of suitable housing in the community. While the broader housing crisis dominates news, addressing this acute shortage must become a priority.
Rising Up: The Role of Tall Buildings in our Cities
In December, Euan Kellie Property Solutions was delighted to receive the decision notice for ‘One Heritage Tower’, following completion of a legal agreement. At 55-storeys in height, this flagship scheme, designed by OMI Architects, will be the tallest building in Salford.
Reflections from Both Sides of the Table
Six months on from my move from Salford City Council, I’m reflecting on how life in the private sector differs from my 14 years in local government.
Planning Application Fees are Increasing on 6 December 2023!
On Wednesday 26 July 2023 the Government announced that fees for major planning applications will increase by 35%, with all other application fees increasing by 25%.
Recent changes to options for amending planning permissions
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities has recently updated its Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) in relation to the options for amending planning permissions, and further changes may soon be on the way.
Will Design Codes bring about change?
The National Model Design Code (‘NMDC’) was published by the Government in 2021, alongside some accompanying changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (‘NPPF’) and seeks to develop a greater role for design coding within the planning system.
What’s next for Places for Everyone?
Last week (Friday 11 August 2023), inspectors appointed by the Secretary of State (Levelling Up, Housing and Communities) confirmed that the Places for Everyone plan was to move to the next stage of the process.
EKPS is attending MIPIM 2024
EKPS is pleased to announce they will be attending MIPIM in March 2024, and will be partnering with Place North. It is hoped that this partnership will mean that with Place North’s expertise and services we can increase our exposure at the international property conference.
Planning Application Fees are Increasing!
Please refer to the blog published on 14 November 2023 with updated information.
On Wednesday 26 July 2023 the Government announced that fees for major planning applications will increase by 35% on Monday 1 April 2024, with all other application fees increasing by 25%.
Politics - The Problem With Planning?
It seems every day there is a new headline relating to issues with the planning system and associated planning reform. Whilst there is no doubt that the planning system is currently failing on many fronts – arguably this is at least in part due to the politicised nature of the system and an unstable government.