Exploring planning deregulation's consequences: the case of permitted development rights in England

In 2013, central government introduced a planning deregulation called ‘permitted development’ for the conversion of office buildings to residential use across England, followed from 2015 onwards by similar measures allowing the conversion of a range of other commercial and agricultural buildings into residential use without the need for the full scrutiny of a planning permission. In this talk, Ben will draw from the findings of various research projects he has led to consider the multiple implications of this deregulation, outlining how it did lead to tens of thousands of housing units being delivered but with a range of problematic issues arising around the loss of business space, the location of some conversions, the affordability and, in particular, the quality of much of the housing created. He will conclude by considering what this approach to planning reform tells us about the wider policy approach to resolving the housing crisis and the role of planning regulation in proactive place-making.

This event is part of The Bartlett School of Planning (BSP) public lecture series, held regularly throughout the academic year. Speakers are drawn from across the world to showcase recent ideas and research. Find out more about the series and upcoming events.