The Government have confirmed changes to the planning application fee system which will come into force 1st April 2024, including a 35% increase on major planning applications, and 25% increase on all others. Fees will then increase annually on 1st April using the Consumer Price Index from the previous September, with annual fee increases capped at 10%, and reviewed every 3 years. They are also removing the right to a ‘free go’ to encourage pre-apps. And the Planning Guarantee for non-major applications will reduce from 26 weeks to 16 weeks – so if no Extension of Time is agreed, you are entitled to a refund if an application is not determined within 16 weeks. Majors will stay at 26 weeks.
Hazel Izod
NOTE: This article was updated at 3.45pm on Wednesday 23 August to clarify the timing of the implementation of the measures. The article previously stated that the fee rise would come into force on 1 April 2024, which is not stated in the consultation response or the regulations.