Permitted development rights: change of use from office to residential

Our Planning Committee has asked Rt Hon Eric Pickles MP to reconsider the Government's proposed new permitted development rights that would allow the change of use from office space to residential without the need for planning permission.

The Committee held a meeting on 12 March 2013 to discuss these proposals with a range of stakeholders and experts. Although the guests represented different fields in both the public and private sectors, they were unanimous in their opposition to the proposal. They were deeply concerned at the impact the proposed permitted development rights might have on London's economic recovery, on the delivery of good standard homes for all, and on London's infrastructure and amenities.

The Planning Committee therefore urges the Government to review these matters before making a final decision.

See the letter from the Planning Committee, below.