Hansard

Office Development Permits

Volume 868: debated on Wednesday 30 January 1974

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Mr. Sandelson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has reviewed his recently announced policy of restricting the issue of office development permits; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Rippon

Yes. I am satisfied that in present circumstances it is necessary to continue the restrictions in both the public and private sectors for the time being. I have, however, decided that there is a limited number of classes of application where it would be unreasonable to withhold permits if the applications are otherwise acceptable.These categories are:

  • (i) Buildings completed or in an advanced stage of construction where changed circumstances necessitate a new permit if the building is to be occupied.
  • (ii) Completed buildings where change of use to offices with minimal construction work is proposed.
  • (iii) Amendments of detail or extensions in time of existing permits.
  • (iv) Applications associated with the industrial development certificate control.

    • In addition, permits will be issued in fulfilment of specific undertakings made before the recent restrictions were introduced.

    I shall continue to keep this policy under review.