Government announced new approach to environmental regulation to support new homes drive

The Government’s Regulation Action plan confirmed there has been support for proposals for a more proportionate and realistic approach to environmental permitting. These changes would help accelerate the construction of new housing and infrastructure by allowing builders to cut through the red tape and cut down on administrative costs for businesses. The Environment Agency will have the power to decide which activities should be exempt from requiring an environmental permit, making the scheme quicker and more flexible.

There are many activities that are crucial for the early stages of construction some of which pose a minimal risk. The Government’s Plan will mean that builders can start work rather than waiting for permits which will ultimately save them up to 16 weeks of waiting.

Some low risk temporary activities (e.g. certain flood risk activities on farms) will no longer require a permit if certain conditions are met. This will save around £360 (the average permit cost) and reduce delays caused by waiting for permits to be issued.