NEWS & EVENTS

Planning Regulation changes  recently announced by the government to allow  homeowners to install further forms of green energy  generating equipment without the need for planning permission have been welcomed as  a step forward by a local planning specialist.

John Sneddon, planning consultant at Roythornes Solicitors said the measures would remove much  more of the red tape which could have previously  discouraged  homeowners  from  generating 'green energy'.

Under the changes, due to come in to force on 1st December, people will be able to install  small wind turbines, solar panels, and ground source and water source heat pumps at their homes without the need for planning permission, providing they are installed in line with industry standards and meet certain conditions regarding  siting and size.

Speaking about the changes, John said:

"The measures have been introduced by the Government to encourage home owners to install green energy  generating equipment  at  their homes.  If they no longer need to have planning permission for such  items, this  should make the whole process more attractive and  will  considerably encourage the  home installation of small scale  green energy generating schemes."