ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has joined a number
of business organisations to raise concerns on Government plans
to allow retail uses within town centres and local parades to be
converted into housing without planning permission.
In a letter to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities
and Local Government , 27 business organisations representing different
professions and traders have called for the Government to
reconsider these plans, highlighting the detrimental effect that
it could have on communities and customers’ ability to access
essential services.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
launched a consultation on plans to reform permitted development
rights, to allow for most shops, restaurants and other business
premises within the E Use Class to be converted into housing
without the need for planning permission.
In its submission, ACS recognised the importance of flexibility
within the planning system but outlined that any changes of use
should only be approved following proper consideration of: the
potential impact on the economic health of the retail centre, the
need to maintain an adequate provision of essential local
services, and the potential impact on the local character of the
area.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “High streets and other
retail locations need to change, including more conversion of
retail units into housing, but this absolutely has to be done on
a planned basis. A free for all in conversions to residential use
would make high streets incoherent and less compelling places to
shop, socialise, live and work.”
The consultation closed on 28th January. The new
permitted developments regime is set to take effect on
1st August once confirmed.
ACS’ submission is available
here.
