Developers are facing construction delays of more than 18 months and additional costs of up to £49,000 per week due to safety regulations such as the Building Safety Act (BSA), according to new data from the Purposeful Finance Commission (PFC). A report published today by the PFC highlights how the
Plans for a cutting-edge new Extra Care scheme in South Shields have been submitted for approval. The much-needed specialist accommodation, developed and managed by housing association Karbon Homes in partnership with South Tyneside Council, would consist of 124 one and two-bed apartments, designed to help people with differing levels of
Persimmon Homes Wessex has submitted an outline planning application for the construction of up to 624 new homes in the Grove and Wantage area, further expanding its Wellington Gate development. The proposed development, located to the north-west of Grove, will be adjacent to the existing Wellington Gate site. In addition
By Robert Oates, CEO of leading UK ecology consultancy, Arbtech Having spent the last few weeks providing responses to the Government’s Planning Reform working paper ‘Development and Nature Recovery’ both in writing and in person at the House of Lords, one opportunity we keep pressing is the need for greater
A four-week planning inquiry has commenced over a controversial proposal to transform Green Belt land south of Marlow—part of the Little Marlow Lakes Country Park—into a £750 million film studio complex. The ambitious development includes 18 sound stages, workshops, office spaces, and a vast backlot. Buckinghamshire Council previously refused planning
As the government announces its plans for the next generation of news towns, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) emphasises the critical role of a well-resourced planning system in delivering this vision. Research from the RTPI shows that public spending on planning dropped 16% from 2009 to 2022. Reforming planning without
Wates has submitted a planning application for a new development of temporary modular homes at Waterloo and Queen Street, marking a significant step forward in addressing the urgent housing needs in Havering. The project is part of Wates’ ongoing 12-year Joint Venture partnership with the London Borough of Havering, aimed
Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands will present its draft masterplan for Bristol’s Western Harbour on Monday 10thFebruary, setting out detailed proposals for the city’s western gateway. Western Harbour is one of the most iconic places in the UK with supreme views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge and its spectacular harbour
Meenan Square re-development has taken a major step forward with the submission of a full planning application to Derry City & Strabane District Council (DCSDC). This exciting development marks the culmination of many years of hard work, determination and local engagement to revitalise and re-establish the local area as a
Approval has been granted to transform Hereford’s historic Shirehall into a new community space, featuring a state-of-the-art library and learning centre. Full planning permission and listed building consent were granted at the Planning and Regulatory Committee meeting on Tuesday, January 28, paving the way for the project to begin. The
Developers are facing construction delays of more than 18 months and additional costs of up to £49,000 per week due to safety regulations such as the Building Safety Act (BSA), according to new data from the Purposeful Finance Commission (PFC). A report published today by the PFC highlights how the BSA has unintentionally caused significant setbacks in the construction sector. The independent body, which brings together public and private sector organisations, warns that the stringent regulatory process is creating major barriers to housing and infrastructure development. The report, Breaking the Cycle: Unlocking Infrastructure Investment, reveals that developers are waiting over 18 months for approvals from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) before they can even begin construction. These delays stem primarily from the three-stage ‘gateway’ process that high-risk projects must navigate to secure planning consent, construction approval, and ultimately, occupancy. Since the introduction of Gateway 2 in October 2023, the number of build-to-rent (BTR) homes reaching the detailed planning application stage has dropped by 41%, falling to just 17,315 between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The PFC argues that these regulatory delays are making many schemes financially unviable, with one developer reportedly losing up to £49,000 per week due to prolonged waiting times at Gateway 2. In December alone, the BSR received 1,502 planning applications for high-risk buildings, yet nearly half remain undecided. Of those reviewed, more than 70% have been either rejected or deemed invalid. Meanwhile, construction starts on over 800 high-rise residential projects have been delayed, with Gateway 2 approvals now taking an average of 22 weeks—almost double the original 12-week target. Tracy Blackwell, chief executive of the Pension Insurance Corporation and chair of the PFC, acknowledged the importance of regulatory oversight but criticised the lack of resources that is slowing progress. She said: “Regulators play a critical role, particularly in ensuring resident safety, but there is no excuse for them to be under-resourced and effectively stalling vital infrastructure and housing projects. The regulatory burden is strangling growth, and I’m delighted the PFC is focused on how regulation can better align with the government’s growth mission and drive investment into the economy.” The report also found that nearly half (49%) of local authorities in England have reduced spending on planning, with overall planning department budgets increasing by just 3.85% per capita between 2018 and 2022. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans for a cutting-edge new Extra Care scheme in South Shields have been submitted for approval. The much-needed specialist accommodation, developed and managed by housing association Karbon Homes in partnership with South Tyneside Council, would consist of 124 one and two-bed apartments, designed to help people with differing levels of care and support needs to live well and independently. The scheme, located on the corner of Galsworthy Road and Benton Road, on the site of the former Chuter Ede school and community association, has been designed to help address the lack of specialist, affordable accommodation options in the borough. 25 of the apartments are specifically designed for people living with dementia. Zoey Hawthorne, Assistant Director of Development Delivery at Karbon Homes, said: “We’re pleased to be submitting this exciting planning proposal for our second Extra Care scheme in South Tyneside, bringing much-needed supported housing to the borough which will enable local people to remain living independently for longer. “We’re looking forward to working with South Tyneside Council to help us deliver the vision for scheme, to create a modern and welcoming place that helps empower people with additional care and support needs to live life to the full. and brings the local community together.” The scheme would be the second Extra Care facility developed by Karbon Homes in partnership with South Tyneside Council, the first being a 96-apartment scheme in Hebburn town centre, which started on site at the end of last year. The partnership supports the Council’s ambitions to build strong communities and help people in South Tyneside to stay well and healthy throughout their lives. Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “This development is a really exciting concept which would provide much-needed specialist accommodation for adults with care and support needs, as well as integrating modern facilities for local people to use. “Our residents have been clear that they would rather live as independently as possible than go into residential care, and this extra care facility would enable them to do just that, living right in the heart of their communities with the support they need.” Karbon has worked with Tyne and Wear based JDDK Architects on the design, which delivers a spacious, socially focused scheme, with high environmental and energy efficiency standards. The apartments would sit across four-storeys, laid out around a central communal courtyard. Ground floor apartments have access to private patio areas, with upper storey apartments benefitting from balconies. The wider scheme would include a variety of landscaped areas and small quiet gardens. The proposal is for the heating and hot water to be powered by air source heat pumps, with additional energy generated through roof mounted solar PV panels. The design has also been guided by the needs of the community. If approved, the scheme will be the first of Karbon’s Extra Care schemes to have an integrated Community Hub, alongside a bistro café and multi-use spaces for activities open to the general public and community groups, helping to facilitate community cohesion. Its delivery would be part-funded by Homes England, through Karbon’s Strategic Partnership with the Government’s housing delivery agency. This strategic partnership is supporting Karbon to deliver 2,200 new affordable homes across the North East and Yorkshire over the next few years, 10% of which will be new homes for people requiring additional support needs. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Persimmon Homes Wessex has submitted an outline planning application for the construction of up to 624 new homes in the Grove and Wantage area, further expanding its Wellington Gate development. The proposed development, located to the north-west of Grove, will be adjacent to the existing Wellington Gate site. In addition to new homes, the plans include infrastructure for community amenities, such as allotments, youth play areas, public open space, and the expansion of Grove Cemetery. The development also aims to enhance local education by expanding primary school facilities and introducing equipped play areas, creating a more family-friendly environment. The application, initially submitted in 2020, has been revised after extensive discussions with local authorities to better align with community priorities and needs. A key part of the proposal is the inclusion of 35% affordable and social housing, which will be transferred to a housing association partner. This initiative is designed to address the housing shortage in the Vale of White Horse District, where there is currently a waiting list of around 2,000 families. Further financial contributions from the developer to support local services will be determined during the application process. If approved, more detailed applications will follow. The five-star builder is also currently selling two, three, and four-bedroom homes at its existing Wellington Gate site, with prices starting from £284,995. Persimmon recently held a community consultation to gather input on the local hub planned for the new development. Seb Spiller, deputy managing director of Persimmon Homes Wessex, commented on the submission: “Persimmon is very proud of the progress we have made at Wellington Gate and are delighted that our presence is bringing infrastructure to the community and opening up the dream of home ownership to so many local people. “So, we are delighted to have submitted this outline application to bring hundreds of more high-quality, low-cost homes to Wantage and Grove, especially after working closely with the Vale of White Horse District Council and Grove Parish Council to make amendments to the plan.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
By Robert Oates, CEO of leading UK ecology consultancy, Arbtech Having spent the last few weeks providing responses to the Government’s Planning Reform working paper ‘Development and Nature Recovery’ both in writing and in person at the House of Lords, one opportunity we keep pressing is the need for greater knowledge sharing and the exploitation of technology to drive decision quality. Any new measures to assist the process of simplifying the ecology workstream for developers to speed up housing delivery will depend heavily on the readiness of accurate data, and AI certainly has a part to play. Having worked with tens of thousands of developers around the UK for the past 20 years, we know that it’s not necessarily the requirement for ecological assessments that causes frustration, but rather the delays and uncertainty that often accompanies the processing of assessments once they have been submitted. In order for the right decisions to be made there has to be detailed baseline data across planning authorities so that the impacts of a particular development can be accurately assessed. Presently, Ministers are claiming that bats and newts are “blockers” to development, but there is a lack of clarity on where that information is coming from. In the last five years there have been almost 2,000,000 planning applications made. That is a colossal amount of data, all in the public domain, that is completely untapped. This data could be used to help drive up the quality of decision making and speed up policy reform. By having a model with all the data linked to particular planning applications, a ‘super baseline’ could be created to understand the matrix of species and habitats within each LPA, using the best available evidence. At Arbtech, we have existing proprietary data (taken from 12,000 planning applications in 2024 alone) that could be made available to speed up the creation of the new super-baseline understanding for decision makers; an essential pre-requisite for any change, let alone radical reforms. This is where AI will be a game changer. For example, it could be mandated that all ecology reports contain a strictly formatted summary appendix that a machine learning tool could easily exploit the constant stream of fresh data as it is generated by the sector. This would greatly assist data collection. In fact, at Arbtech we are developing an AI application to translate all our data into actional insights for the public and private sectors in the hope that this will speed up the planning process and avoid preventable outcomes such as the irreversible decline of habitats and species. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A four-week planning inquiry has commenced over a controversial proposal to transform Green Belt land south of Marlow—part of the Little Marlow Lakes Country Park—into a £750 million film studio complex. The ambitious development includes 18 sound stages, workshops, office spaces, and a vast backlot. Buckinghamshire Council previously refused planning permission, citing several key concerns. The rejection was based on the project’s failure to prove the “very special circumstances” required to justify development on protected Green Belt land. Additional objections included the loss of part of the Country Park, potential harm to the Thames Valley landscape and the adjoining Chilterns National Landscape, as well as negative impacts on local residents’ amenities. Furthermore, the Council raised concerns over the project’s impact on the local road network and its failure to promote sustainable transport solutions effectively. The case has now been taken up by the Secretary of State for a final decision. Representing Buckinghamshire Council, the local planning authority, are Simon Bird KC and Esther Drabkin-Reiter, instructed by Laura Lee Briggs of the Council’s Legal Services. Meanwhile, Claire Nevin, instructed by Sophie Rae of PMV Planning, is acting on behalf of two key opposition groups—Little Marlow Parish Council and Save Marlow’s Green Belt. The inquiry’s outcome will be pivotal, shaping the future of both Marlow’s natural landscape and the UK’s expanding film industry. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As the government announces its plans for the next generation of news towns, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) emphasises the critical role of a well-resourced planning system in delivering this vision. Research from the RTPI shows that public spending on planning dropped 16% from 2009 to 2022. Reforming planning without investing in its capacity risks missing out on over £70 billion in potential value. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “Historically, new towns have proven that a well-resourced planning system can drive housing delivery, and offer us a model for solving the housing crisis today while delivering on the Government’s growth agenda. “But with the Planning and Infrastructure Bill on the horizon, we’re urging essential reforms to ensure the planning system can meet the government’s housing targets and support economic growth. To do this, planning departments need long-term effective solutions to resourcing issues and an enhanced corporate presence in local authorities through a statutory role for Chief Planning Officers, ensuring they have a seat at the top table. “The next generation of new towns needs to be flexible, and able to adapt and evolve as communities grow. The RTPI is commissioning extensive international case study-based research on how new towns can be designed with this in mind.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wates has submitted a planning application for a new development of temporary modular homes at Waterloo and Queen Street, marking a significant step forward in addressing the urgent housing needs in Havering. The project is part of Wates’ ongoing 12-year Joint Venture partnership with the London Borough of Havering, aimed at revitalising local communities and providing much-needed housing across the borough. The proposed development includes the installation of 18 modular homes, designed to provide high-quality temporary accommodation for families in need. The homes will be equipped with modern amenities and constructed to the highest standards of sustainability and energy efficiency. The proposals place a strong emphasis on design and place making, featuring entryways to the front of the homes that works with the local area and provide shade. Thoughtfully planned landscaping will enhance the site, creating a natural environment that encourages biodiversity and a sense of community. Whilst the original Phase 1 was paused due regulatory requirement to re-design with dual stair cores, the joint venture has proposed bringing forward the lower Blocks 9 and 10. These two blocks will be 100 percent affordable, which includes 66 social housing (London affordable rent) and 43 Shared Ownership homes. This will enable those who left the old Waterloo and Queen Street estate to make way for the regeneration to take place will be given the choice to return, with the remainder of the properties helping to reduce housing pressures for those with the greatest need. The joint venture aim to deliver all remaining phases ahead of the final phase, where the temporary modular homes will be located, in or around 2031/2. The modular homes could then be relocated to other areas of the borough where there is a need and suitable sites. Councillor Paul McGeary, Cabinet Member for Housing Property said: “This represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide suitable temporary housing solutions for homeless families in the borough. “The temporary modular homes are situated on the plot of land that forms part of the final construction phase and will provide safe and comfortable living environments for families currently living in hostels and hotels. Blocks 9 and 10, which will provide affordable housing for local people, will be the next phase to progress.” The planning application can be reviewed, and includes an opportunity for the public to share their views about the scheme. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands will present its draft masterplan for Bristol’s Western Harbour on Monday 10thFebruary, setting out detailed proposals for the city’s western gateway. Western Harbour is one of the most iconic places in the UK with supreme views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge and its spectacular harbour infrastructure dominated by three huge, listed Bonded warehouses. Following Monday’s briefing with key community representatives and local councillors, there will be a period of public engagement from 11th February to 9th March 2025 to gather views and feedback. Alex Lifschutz, Founding Director of Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands says: “We are tremendously excited about the future of this amazing place and the next chapter in its rich history. Within the development area just next to the vibrant communities of Hotwells and Southville are incredible engineering artefacts – historic dock gates, the double decker Ashton Avenue Bridge, Plimsoll and Junction swing bridges, Brunel’s lock and Swivel Bridge. We want to make the area more accessible and enjoyable for those taking a leisurely stroll and for commuters or cyclists. We will vastly improve the green open space and waterside walks, planting hundreds of trees and improving ecology, at the same time installing flood defences to protect against the effects of climate change. This plan builds on the assets of Western Harbour and surrounding communities creating a dynamic place that will encourage movement through beautiful landscapes.” The masterplan proposes between 750 and 1200 new homes addressing Bristol’s acute housing need. A single tree lined road will replace the tangle of ramps and routes that cover much of the 33-hectare area at the westernmost end of Bristol’s Floating Harbour – removing the equivalent of 5 football pitches of tarmac. Under and around the new homes there will be community and cultural spaces, workplaces, independent shops and restaurants. The Bond warehouses will be upgraded and repurposed as improved Bristol archives open to the public and as loft homes. Pedestrian and cycle routes and greenspaces between the buildings will transform the area from a car dominated to people friendly place. Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “We’ve listened to feedback and have adjusted our proposals for Western Harbour based on how people felt about the initial ideas shared back in the autumn. “We’re delighted to be able to retain Riverside Garden Centre in its current location and look forward to continuing our work with them to develop plans for how the garden centre will look in the future. “Ashton Meadows will remain a green open space linking Greville Smyth Park to the river and to the recreational spaces of Ashton Court and Leigh Woods beyond. The masterplan also sets out proposals to restore the wonderful heritage buildings of Western Harbour for public and residential use. Councillor Dyer said: “The Grade II-listed bonded warehouses, with refurbished and repurposed interiors, remain the dominant features of the skyline to the west of the city.” Councillor Andrew Brown, Chair of the Economy and Skills Committee and Harbour Committee, said: “By bringing together the well-established assets, heritage and communities in the area with a mix of new shops, cafés, cultural uses, creative workspaces and homes we can create a vibrant and sustainable neighbourhood.’’ Visit www.harbourhopes.co.uk for full details. The Western Harbour project is funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority through the Investment Fund, administered by the Mayoral Combined Authority. The Lifschutz Davidson masterplan team includes: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Meenan Square re-development has taken a major step forward with the submission of a full planning application to Derry City & Strabane District Council (DCSDC). This exciting development marks the culmination of many years of hard work, determination and local engagement to revitalise and re-establish the local area as a thriving community. The project is being delivered by the Executive Office’s Urban Villages initiative in conjunction with Apex Housing Association (Apex) and Meenan Square Developments Ltd. It will see the construction of a mixed-use development, comprising community services, housing and essential local economic amenities which will include retail, commercial and office space. Sheena McCallion, Chief Executive of Apex Housing Association, commented: “We would like to express our thanks to all residents, community stakeholders and elected representatives who took the time to provide their feedback and support for this important project during the consultation process. The regeneration of Meenan Square is about more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about building a more vibrant and sustainable community and transforming a significant area of the city for the generations to come.” A separate local planning application, for the development of eight social homes on the wider site, has also been submitted by Apex to the council with a proposed housing mix of two-bed and three-bed homes. Ciaran O’Donnell, Project Co-ordinator, Meenan Square Developments Ltd added: “The Meenan Square transformation project will provide a space for all communities to live and thrive in. The submission of the planning applications to the council marks a vital step in the development process and we look forward to engaging positively with DCSDC planners and consultees as the applications make their way to planning committee in the near future. “I am extremely grateful for the support and feedback that local residents and interested parties have provided the team during the consultation process as we sought to deliver real and lasting impact in the local community through the revitalisation of Meenan Square.” The applicants have been supported by GM Design acting as the Project Architects, and Turley, providing independent Planning and Strategic Communication services. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Approval has been granted to transform Hereford’s historic Shirehall into a new community space, featuring a state-of-the-art library and learning centre. Full planning permission and listed building consent were granted at the Planning and Regulatory Committee meeting on Tuesday, January 28, paving the way for the project to begin. The initiative aims to create a modern, welcoming facility while preserving the rich heritage of the Shirehall. The initial phases of work for Hereford’s Shirehall will focus on ensuring the building is structurally sound, watertight, and safe for public use, while also repairing and maintaining its historic features. The main entrance will be redesigned into a spacious and inviting area with exhibition space, alongside improvements to enhance accessibility. The project will also include a full upgrade of heating, electrical, and fire safety systems, significantly improving efficiency and reducing running costs. The Assembly Hall will house the new library, offering ample space for visitors to read, browse collections, and participate in a variety of library events. Additional meeting rooms and flexible spaces will be developed to accommodate community activities and events. A new learning centre will provide enhanced facilities for education, digital literacy, cultural engagement, and wellbeing programs, ensuring broad benefits for the local community. The plans have been shaped through extensive consultations, workshops, and surveys conducted over several months. Public feedback from a consultation held late last year is currently being analysed and will help refine the final design to best meet the needs of future users. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
