Welsh Government is to introduce new additional temporary permitted development rights, presumably to free up some things from the planning process to kick start and facilitate popups and aid the much needed post pandemic economic recovery. They take effect on 30 April 2021.

Amongst other things:

Part 4a permits temporary changes of use of land of up to 28 days in the relevant period “for any purpose” and associated moveable structures (14 days in the case of markets and motorsport) . Markets by or on behalf of a local authority have no upper day limit. These rights apply until 03 January 2022, are restricted in more sensitive locations. Temporary caravan sites are permitted (although temporary camping/glamping sites are permissible).

New Classes C, D. and E allow temporary changes of use for a period of up to 6 months within town centres from a building in class A1, A2 or A3 use to a use within class A1, A2, A3, B1, D1 or D2. The right applies until 29 April 2022 and the premises must revert to the former use after. Developers must notify the Local Planning Authority of the change. Takeaway use is not PD under these provisions.

A3 uses can place removable furniture to sell, serve or consume food or drink supplied from the premises on the highway between 0800 am and 2200 hours.

And finally…

Retractable awnings will be PD if installed before 29 April 2022. Consent under the Highways Act is a condition of exercising this right.

Tres continentale.

As ever conditions. limitations and interpretations apply and we are always ready to advise on requirements.

We love to be positive so welcome these flexible measures in the planning system. Let’s hope the related “trades” of licensing, highways etc don’t encumber to the extent they negate viability and the short term opportunity. It will also be interesting whether Welsh Government will have released the potential short term activities out of “lockdown”.