RICS has responded to the Killian Pretty review of planning applications. This review has examined each aspect of the planning application process from pre-application through to the discharge of conditions and commencement of construction.

In particular, the review examines the factors which can disrupt the progress of an application and makes recommendations for improving the process.

RICS highlights two major issues in its response:

1. the need for proportionality throughout the planning process (this point encompasses lack of flexibility, over-complexity, and an overemphasis on target dates)
   
2. the need for experienced professionals.

RICS believes that the move to improve the Planning system must:

• deliver decisions on development in a timely and fair manner
• be outcomes focused
• provide an onus for authorities to ensure permissions be granted in a way that ensures both quality and standards
• reflect democratic processes and a strong role for community engagement
• reflect an understanding of the physical nature of property assets
• improve certainty for those involved in the process 
• not be too prescriptive or lack flexibility
• be evidence based and include reference to quality research
• enable best practice to be developed and encouraged.

To help meet this challenge RICS believes that Government must:

• improve the pre application process by making it both thorough and standardised
• not increase the complexity of the planning system by introducing a new intermediate system for fresh applications
• ensure that the right amount of information is required for the right type of application
• modify Planning Performance Agreements so that they are simplified for smaller applications
• access market guidance and expertise as changes are developed
• recognise resourcing issues within local authorities and provide support and guidance wherever possible
• help overcome the costs involved in moving to e-planning models
• improve the accountability of statutory consultees
• consider the use of dispute resolution such as mediation within the planning process
• improve operation of and information within both departmental and local authority websites
• acknowledge and address the skills shortage within the UK planning sector
• help support partnerships between professional and educational institutions
• recognise the important roles that professionals play within local authorities and the civil service
• ensure that staff with the right skills and experience handle complex applications.

To read the full RICS response, please refer to the PDF Downloads panel.

Contact
Damian Cleghorn
Policy Officer
RICS Communications Directorate
dcleghorn@rics.org