Planning rules changed to aid digital and broadband roll-out

The government has laid revised planning regulations for the installation of antennae including satellite dishes in England. The changes are designed to aid access to digital television and broadband technologies.

These amended regulations take account of the wide variety of antennae technology now available so that all will be subject to the same permitted development regulations. The revised regime follows consultation carried out in 2003 and involves changes to the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO).

The regulations for designated areas like National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and conservation areas will be more restrictive. Listed buildings will still need full listed building consent.

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has promised to issue a revised Householders Guide explaining the new regime.

Planning minister Yvette Cooper said: "The planning system needs to adapt to take account of changing technology. People want to get access to wireless broadband services and digital and satellite TV. These changes remove some of the red tape around new technology by updating the planning rules, whilst keeping protections for the local environment."

View further details of the changes here.

Roger Milne

28 October 2005