Insights: Built Environment

With local elections looming on 2 May this year, applicants for planning permission should expect delays in local planning authorities' decision making during April.

Following the introduction of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, a new government consultation was carried out, ending on 26 March and discussed proposed reforms to the way that social housing is allocated in England.

Section 193 of the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 (the HRA), as amended by the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, affords the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) the power to set consumer standards that registered providers are required to meet.

Our Local Authority round up provides brief summaries of topical information on a weekly basis, to keep you aware of the changes and updates relevant to you.

In this planning update we look at the three key changes across the sector concerning Hillside park, nutrient neutrality and a new pre-application service for National Significant Infrastructure Projects.

With effect from 1 January 2024, the EU Port Services Regulation and accompanying domestic regulations (together the "Regulations") were repealed as part of the Government's drive to repeal or replace legacy EU legislation.

Following the passing of the Environment Act 2021 (Commencement No. 8 and Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2024 on 17 January, we now know that the mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain regime will take effect from 12 February 2024.

In December 2020, Awaab Ishak, a two-year old child living with his parents in their affordable home, sadly passed away from a respiratory condition which was found to be caused by damp and mould in the flat.