Applications for large developments take on average 12 months to process, according to ODPM research.
The report, released yesterday, also revealed that one-third of this time is spent on planning gain negotiations.

It criticised the planning process for holding up the delivery of affordable housing. "Many authorities do not have an adequate and coherent development plan policy framework for affordable housing," the report said.

It urged councils to encourage employers to put up money for affordable housing and set out realistic guidelines for developers who want to hand over cash in lieu of on-site affordable housing.

And it called on the government to set up a specialist panel to consult with councils on affordable housing and large planning applications, find more money for planning departments and revise national policy guidance.

Source

Housing Today

Postscript

  • Read Improving the Delivery of Affordable Housing in London and the South-east at www.odpm.gov.uk