RIBA Chartered Architect - Cheshire and North Wales
The legislation makes provision for the production of so-called Strategic Development Plans to tackle larger-than-local cross-boundary issues, such as housing supply and areas for economic growth and regeneration. These will focus on three areas including the A55 corridor.
The new government should consider following in the footsteps of Historic England and introduce a charging system for enhanced planning services, according to the British Property Federation (BPF).
Historic England has consulted on charging for a series of enhanced services which will allow developers to pay for options such as extended pre-application advice and fast-track listing within a guaranteed time frame, whilst still offering its existing advice for free.
The charges will help improve performance by delivering a better-resourced system for all, and will encourage developers to bring historic buildings back into use, while also safeguarding the future of these assets.
The BPF has suggested that a similar structure be considered by the new administration as part of the solution to tackling the lack of resources facing local planning departments.
In its response to the Historic England consultation, the BPF recommended that there should be a regular review of the free services, to ensure that those who are unable to pay do not receive a poor, reduced or slower service.
It’s worth reading the RIBA’s recent research on the aging population issue here
Google’s new analysis of websites assesses how user-friendly they are on smartphones and tablets as well as conventional computers.
Architect ICE Arch Ltd has recently updated its website. The design is intended to make it better for visitors using a mobile device. Google rated it ‘awesome’
Do your own test – visit https://www.google.co.uk/webmasters/tools/mobile-friendly/
Environmental Impact Assessment statements are now only needed for sites of 5 hectares or more (150 residential units). Previously it was 0.5 hectares.
Cheshire East Council must give the Planning Inspector, by 31 July, extra evidence on how it has assessed and will meet housing needs.
A great opportunity to find out about the latest trends in products for the home, this event runs from 2 – 10 May
ICE Arch Limited is completely revising its website. Many new projects have been added, and updates published on earlier ones
Two new business rates schemes have been announced by Welsh Economy Minister Edwina Hart to help revitalise High Streets and stimulate and encourage speculative commercial development.
The schemes – ‘ Open for Business’ and ‘New Developments’ – will involve an anticipated investment of over £5m by the Welsh Government which will provide a grant to local authorities to run the programmes.
1. We can make the whole design and build process less stressful for you
2. We are trained to think creatively and laterally – good design adds value
3. We liaise professionally with you the client, local authorities, builders and suppliers, and
4. We can save you time and money, helping you maximise your investment