Crown development on Crown-owned land
Before June 2006, the Crown was not subject to the planning system, but since then, the Planning Acts apply to the Crown in much the same way as they do to other developers.
This means the Crown is now generally required to apply to the local planning authority for the following on Crown-owned land:
- Planning permission.
- Consent under a Tree Preservation Order.
- Listed building consent.
- Planning permission for relevant demolition in a conservation area.
- Hazardous substances consent.
Certain provisions and arrangements are in place so that development that is critical can be facilitated, and access to sensitive information (i.e. in the interests of national security and defence) can be restricted. These include:
- Additional permitted development rights: Enabling certain Crown developments without needing to apply for planning permission.
- Non-disclosure arrangements: When details of planning applications cannot be disclosed.
- National security provisions: To avoid disclosure of sensitive information in a public inquiry.
- Special urgency procedure: To fast-track the planning process for urgent Crown development.
The local planning authority may determine that, due to the Crown body withholding certain details from the planning application, it does not have the necessary information to make a decision and may refuse consent or fail to determine the application.
On appeal, the Secretary of State, under section 321 of the principal Act, has the power to restrict the relevant information to certain people at an inquiry. In this way, it is hoped that an informed decision can be reached.
Under rule 6 of the Planning (National Security Directions and Appointed Representatives) (England) Rules 2006, the Secretary of State must publicise any request that is made by a Crown body for a section 321 direction.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Crown estate.
- Forest ownership.
- Listed buildings.
- Permitted development.
- Planning permission.
- Statutory approvals for buildings.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.