The Prime Minister’s Announcement on the 30th June entitled “A New Deal for Britain” contained some interesting changes to property planning laws which could create opportunities for SSASs.  

A reform of the current system was outlined which is due to be introduced in September:  
·         Buildings and land in town centres will be able to change use without planning permission.
·         Existing commercial properties, including newly vacant shops, can be converted into residential housing more easily.
·         More types of commercial premises will have total flexibility to be repurposed through reform of the Use Classes Order.
·         A wider range of commercial buildings will be allowed to change to residential use without the need for a planning application.
·         Builders will no longer need a normal planning application to demolish and rebuild vacant and redundant residential and commercial buildings if they are rebuilt as homes.