Developers will find it easier to extend the life of planning permissions thanks to temporary new rules designed to help firms see out the recession.

All planning permissions granted contain a condition that states how long they last – usually three years.

Up until now, if work has not started on the development when that limit expires and developers want to extend it, they have had to submit a whole new application with all the cost and time that entails.

Lee May, a solicitor on the property team at Kings Hill-based solicitors Vertex Law, said: “The government recognised that the recession has resulted in a dramatic slowdown in the take-up rates of schemes which already have planning permission.

“Many significant schemes will lapse unless extended, but developers are reluctant to pay the cost of submitting new applications.”

As a result of those concerns a new streamlined procedure came into force this month, making it easier to extend permissions for applications approved before October 1.

Mr May said: “Less information is now required with the application as long as you are only looking to extend the permission rather than make any changes to it.

“For example, there is no need for a design and access statement or for further plans and drawings, and the statutory consultation procedures are less strict, with greater discretion given to local planning authorities.”

Later this year, reduced fees for extending applications come into effect with major development applications likely to cost £500, householder developments £50 and other sizes costing £170.

Mr May added: “Unless it expires imminently, it would be a good idea to delay any applications to extend the life of a permission until the new fees come in.” For more information or advice on changes to the planning regulations, call Mr May on 01732 224039.