Temporary stop notice in planning
A temporary stop notice is an enforcement notice that can be issued by a planning authority if there is a breach of planning control, that is, where development is carried out without the proper planning permission, or where there is a failure to comply with a condition or limitation stipulated on permitted development rights.
It is an order for ‘relevant activity’ to cease on any part of the land to which the notice refers.
This power was introduced in 2004 by Section 171E of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.
A temporary stop notice differs from a stop notice in that it does not need to be accompanied by, or follow, the issuing of an enforcement notice, instead, it can be issued on a stand-alone basis. The advantage of this is that it is faster, as the compliance period does not have to expire before the local authority can serve the notice, and so it is more effective where immediate action is necessary.
Issuing a temporary stop notice is at the discretion of the planning authority, on the basis that they believe there to be a breach for which it is ‘...expedient that the activity which amounts to the breach is stopped immediately.’ The requirements set out in the notice should prohibit only that which it is essential to prohibit in order to safeguard public safety or amenity in the neighbourhood, or to prevent serious harm being caused to the surrounding area’s environment.
A temporary stop notice is only valid for 28 days, after which, the local authority must take alternative of enforcement action if necessary.
Failure to comply with a stop notice can lead to prosecution and an unlimited fine.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
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.