Faster planning decisions for small businesses

by Aitch, posted in Business Support

Businesses planning improvements to their premises could benefit from changes to the planning system intended to reduce delays and make straightforward applications easier to process.

The Government announced on 30 October 2026 that a new system would allow professional planning officers to decide routine applications without waiting for a planning committee meeting. The arrangements, which took effect on 31 October in England, are intended to free up committees to concentrate on larger and more complicated developments while providing quicker decisions for smaller projects.

The changes could be particularly relevant to retailers, hospitality businesses and other organisations considering extensions, alterations or improvements to existing premises. Delays in obtaining planning permission can increase project costs, disrupt investment timetables and create uncertainty when businesses are arranging finance or negotiating with contractors.

The Government is also introducing new artificial intelligence technology to help planning departments process applications more efficiently. Early testing of the PlanAssist system reduced the time spent on certain administrative tasks by 58%, although its initial application has principally involved routine householder developments rather than commercial projects.

The technology is being extended to additional local authorities, with wider availability planned during 2027.

Businesses should not assume that planning permission will automatically be granted more quickly, particularly where proposals involve significant changes of use, environmental considerations or other complex issues. However, the reforms could help remove some of the administrative delays affecting relatively straightforward applications.

For businesses considering property improvements, the announcement provides an additional reason to review investment plans and establish what permissions may be required before committing expenditure.
 

Source:Other | 01-11-2026
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Aitch
I'm Aitch, the Founder and CEO of CIGMA Accounting Ltd. As a Chartered Management Accountant and as a CIMA member, I've spent more than 16 years helping businesses, entrepreneurs, landlords, and individuals with tax planning, accounting, and HMRC compliance. As a chartered accountant in London, I'm passionate about making complex tax matters easier to understand and helping clients make confident financial decisions. Over the years, I've advised start-ups, SMEs, established companies, and high-net-worth individuals across a wide range of tax and accounting matters. My expertise includes Corporation Tax, Self-Assessment, Capital Gains Tax, Inheritance Tax planning, R&D tax relief, capital allowances, international tax, and resolving complex HMRC compliance issues. Whether clients need a business accountant, tax accountant, or strategic tax advisor, my focus is always on delivering practical advice that creates long-term value. One of my specialist areas is Making Tax Digital (MTD). I've worked extensively with businesses preparing HMRC's digital reporting requirements, helping them move to cloud accounting, improve financial processes, and adopt technology that makes compliance more efficient. I regularly speak at Making Tax Digital roadshows, industry events, and educational sessions in collaboration with Zoho Books, sharing practical insights into digital accounting, tax legislation, and the future of the profession. Many business owners looking for the best accounting firm in London are not simply searching for an accountant they're looking for trusted advice, responsive support, and long-term value. That's the approach I've taken in building CIGMA Accounting. My team and I work closely with businesses across London and the UK, providing accounting services, tax advisory, bookkeeping, payroll, VAT, company accounts, and strategic tax planning tailored to each client's goals. Through this website, I share practical guidance on UK taxation, Making Tax Digital, HMRC updates, Corporation Tax, Self-Assessment, and business finance. My aim is to provide reliable, straightforward information that helps business owners understand changing regulations, reduce compliance risks, and make informed financial decisions with confidence.
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