§ Mr. Gryllsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he intends to issue a consultation paper on the relaxation of planning controls over changes of use as between light industry and warehousing for small units.
§ Mr. FoxThe Department has today issued a consultation paper containing proposals to allow a greater flexibility of use for small premises. It is intended to amend the General Development Order 1977 so that no planning application will be needed to change from light industrial use to warehouse use or vice versa. The relaxation will only apply to premises of 235 sq. metres and below.
The proposal was one of a number announced by my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his Budget Statement in order to encourage the provision of premises suitable for small firms.
A copy of the consultation paper has been placed in the Library. Responses are requested by 5 September.