Challenge to new permitted development rights and use classes to be heard this week

On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, the challenge to the new permitted development rights and use classes introduced by the Government will be heard by a two-judge Divisional Court. The new permitted development rights introduce a new right to extend upwards by 2 additional storeys to create new homes and a new right to demolish certain buildings for the rebuild as new dwellinghouses. The changes to the use classes include a new Class E which covers commercial, business and service uses. Rights: Community: Action have brought the challenge on the basis of the requirements of strategic environmental assessment, the public sector equality duty and consultation. Paul Brown QC and Alex Shattock will be appearing for Rights: Community: Action. Rupert Warren QC and Anjoli Foster will be appearing for the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government.