Domestic planning permission in Scotland relaxed

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Planning permission regulations have been relaxed in Scotland, allowing greater development rights for property owners.

According to eGov Monitor, the new rules came into force on Monday (February 6th) and should cut the number of people needing to apply for planning permission by up to one fifth – representing around 4,000 individuals each year.

Bob Reid, convenor of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Scotland, noted that the amendments should allow the authorities to devote their resources to developments with a more far-reaching impact on the community.

For those keen to construct a glass extension decorated with conservatory blinds – or any other significant structure – it will still be necessary to double-check local guidelines, but the overall requirement for official permission has been reduced.

Mr Reid said: “The RTPI Scotland welcomes the new permitted development rights. These new rules will make it easier for people to make changes to their homes, with the right safeguards for neighbours and conservation areas and listed buildings.”

Aberdeen City Council’s news service highlighted how people were previously able to build a rear extension of up to 30 metres without requiring planning permission, although they had to satisfy certain criteria.

The local authority noted that the number of permitted development rights have been increased from six to 12, which gives people more freedom on how they want to change their home.