Thanet District Council: Pure Town Planning have secured a renewal of an expired planning permission for alterations and extensions to a dwellinghouse at Sea Road in Westgate-on-Sea, Kent. The scheme was designed by Tony Holt Design and incorporates a bespoke remodelling of the existing dwelling to deliver a contemporary design.

Although the scheme was previously approved in 2014, the development has not been commenced. In accordance with Section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 planning permissions are normally issued with a condition requiring development to commence within 3 years of the decision date – after that the permission “expires” and is no longer valid. There is no way extend the commencement period or to renew a planning permission other than to make a repeat planning application. Planning authorities are instructed to make a consistent decision in such cases unless there are material changes of circumstances – frequently this is the case as relevant planning policies often change in the intervening period. So a renewal is by no means guaranteed.

In this case the applicant sought Pure Town Planning’s expertise to ensure that a renewed planning permission would be granted. Thanet District Council approved the development on the grounds that the design reflects the emerging character of the area and is respectful of the nearby conservation area.

If you have planning permission which has expired or is about to expire and would like it renewed, then why not call the experts at Pure Town Planning on 01202 585524 or email info@puretownplanning.co.uk for a FREE 30 minute consultation on how we can help you.