Birmingham Science Park, Aston - Local Development Order (LDO)
What is a Local Development Order (LDO)?
This is a new type of planning mechanism, which enables us to grant planning permission automatically for certain types of development within a certain geographical area. Effectively it extends 'permitted development' within a defined area and specifies the types of development which are permitted. If you are proposing a development specified in the LDO, therefore you will no longer need to submit a separate planning application.
Why are we adopting this LDO?
In March 2011 the Government announced the creation of a number of Enterprise Zones across England to support economic growth. Birmingham City Centre, including Birmingham Science Park was chosen as an Enterprise Zone. As part of the designation, there is a commitment that we will help accelerate growth and create new jobs. Various approaches will be used to help deliver this growth, including a simplified planning processes using LDOs, where appropriate.
Where does it apply?
This LDO applies to Birmingham Science Park Aston. It covers an area of 9.2 ha located between Woodcock Street and Dartmouth Middleway, to the north of Jennens Road and south of Aston Road and Love Lane. See the plan of the area covered by the LDO on the main page.
What is the aim of the LDO?
The aim of the LDO is to streamline the planning system for businesses seeking to locate and expand within Birmingham Science Park. It specifically looks to enable the reuse and conversion of existing buildings. It offers opportunities for small and medium enterprises within the digital, information and communications sectors a more flexible approach to enable technology based companies to use space more effectively. These aims reflect our Big City Plan which identifies the Science Park as a key location in driving forward the city’s knowledge economy, by acting as a hub promoting enterprise and innovation.
What can I do exactly under the LDO?
Changes of use
You are allowed to change the use of an existing property from the use classes specified below, to the list of uses set out the order, without the need to apply for planning permission. The changes permitted are:
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B1 - permitted change to B2 and B8
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B2 – permitted change to B1 (b) (c) and B8
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B8 – permitted change to B1 (b) (c) and B2
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D1 – permitted change to B1(b) (c), B2 and B8
These Use Classes are defined as:
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B1 - Business uses (a) offices, (b) research and development, studios, laboratories, high tech (c) Light industry
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B2 - General Industry
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B8 - Storage and Distribution
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D1 - Non residential institutions
Development is not permitted if –
(a) a change of use of a property to B8 has a floor space greater than 999 square metres (gross external measurements).
What do I still need planning permission for?
Other than the changes of use development outlined above, you will still need consent for any physical, structural or operational development, such as external alterations to buildings, extensions, changes of use of land and erection of new buildings. You will also still need consents obtained through other legislation, such as licensing and building regulations.
Do I still need advertisement consent?
Yes - the LDO does not remove the need for advertisement consent (subject to the normal requirements set out in the Advertisement Regulations).
Do I need to inform the Council if I want to change the use of a property?
No - providing the change is in accordance with the LDO. The aim of the LDO is to cut down the red tape and costs involved in establishing such new uses. However, if you are unsure please contact us and we will provide written confirmation of whether your proposal complies with the LDO. We will closely monitor the LDO and any changes that take place. Those not in compliance with the LDO could be subject to legal enforcement action.
What process of approval and consultation has the LDO been through?
Internal consultation on the draft LDO has taken place with other Council departments, including Transportation, Regulatory Services and Legal Services. Discussions have also taken place with the Environment Agency. The City Council’s Planning Committee approved the draft LDO for consultation in January 2012, and formal public consultation on the draft LDO took place in March 2012. The LDO has been endorsed by the DCLG and is now formally adopted.
How long does the LDO last for?
3 years from the 16th May 2012 when it was from when it was formally adopted, although we will be able to retain the LDO longer term if it proves successful. We are also able to modify or revoke the LDO within the 3 year period, if necessary.
What happens to the LDO at the end of the 3 year period?
We will review the performance and effectiveness of the LDO at the end of the 3 year period. At that time, the LDO would cease to apply unless we have decided to renew it, either under the same terms and conditions or under modified terms and conditions.
What happens to my development at the end of the 3 year period?
The uses that have taken place under the LDO will be allowed to continue and remain. No new changes of use will be allowed under the terms of the LDO at the end of the 3 year period, unless it has been renewed. You would need to apply for planning permission for such developments. The same principles apply if the LDO is revoked or modified before the end of the 3 year period. If you have started work but not yet completed it at the end of the 3 year period, you will be allowed to complete it.
Last Updated : 19th June 2012