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20.01.2026
Travel Plans: Smarter, Greener MobilityTravel Plans play an increasingly important role in shaping how people move around our towns and cities. In this article, we explain how DHA Transport can help you meet your Travel Plan needs and deliver practical, sustainable travel solutions for your development.
14.01.2026
Celebrating 40 Years of DHA PlanningFor 40 years, DHA Planning has been shaping communities, delivering innovative planning, transport, and environmental solutions across the UK. From our beginnings in a small Maidstone office to becoming the South East’s largest independent consultancy, our focus has always been on creating high-quality, sustainable development that benefits clients, communities, and local authorities alike.
06.01.2026
New National Policy Statement for Nuclear Power Comes into ForceThe Government has brought into force a new National Policy Statement for nuclear power (EN-7), introducing important changes to how new nuclear projects will be assessed under the NSIP regime. Our latest article sets out what this means for developers and landowners.
16.12.2025
National Planning Policy Framework: proposed reforms and other changes to the planning systemThe Government has today published a consultation on a draft updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), signalling a significant package of proposed reforms to the planning system in England. The consultation is open until 10 March 2026, and represents one of the most wide-ranging updates to national planning policy in recent years.
15.12.2025
London Housing Market Enters a New ChapterLondon’s housing and development landscape is at a pivotal moment. After a period of rapid growth, the market is now experiencing a slowdown, creating both challenges and opportunities for developers, planners, and the wider community. Despite these challenges, the capital’s global appeal, cultural vibrancy, and investment magnetism remain unmatched, and as the city adapts, innovative planning solutions and a renewed focus on deliverability are shaping the next chapter of London’s housing story.
09.12.2025
Government Signals Pre-Christmas Publication of Updated National Planning Policy FrameworkThe Government has indicated that the long-awaited draft update to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is expected to be published before Parliament rises for the Christmas recess on 18 December. The update forms a key part of the new administration’s wider planning reform agenda.
26.11.2025
Budget Summary 2025 - Implications for Infrastructure, Housing, Planning and EducationOn 26 November 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the updated Budget, released prematurely online before her statement to the House of Commons, building on last year’s widely publicised reforms. Despite the dramatic early publication, the substance of this year’s Budget is more measured. Please read on for more details.
25.11.2025
Planning and Infrastructure Bill Clears House of Lords – UpdateThe Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill has successfully cleared the House of Lords and is now set to gain Royal Assent, following assurances on some of the bill’s more controversial nature recovery provisions. The House of Lords debated 17 motions on 24 November, most of which related to whether the Lords should insist on amendments they had made earlier that were subsequently overturned by the House of Commons.
18.11.2025
Government Announces Default “Yes” for Housing Near Train StationsThe Government has announced a significant shift in national planning policy, confirming that new homes proposed near well-connected railway and tram stations will, in future, receive a default “yes” – provided they meet specified criteria. The measure forms part of the next phase of reforms intended to accelerate housing delivery and support the Government’s ambition to build 1.5 million homes this Parliament.
18.11.2025
Proposed Reforms to Statutory Consultee SystemThe Government has announced a package of reforms aimed at improving the effectiveness of the statutory consultee system in England. The reforms, outlined by Matthew Pennycook MP, Minister for Housing and Planning, seek to ensure that statutory consultees provide timely, proportionate, and practical advice to support high-quality development and confident decision-making.
17.11.2025
Update: Government Rejects Lords’ Amendment on Nature Recovery – What This Means for DevelopmentDHA Planning continues to follow the progression of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, particularly the elements relating to nature recovery, environmental delivery plans (EDPs) and the proposed Nature Restoration Fund (NRF). Please read on for the latest update.
11.11.2025
Kent Property Market Report 2025 — SummaryDHA Planning were pleased to attend this year’s launch of the Kent Property Market Report at the Ashford International Hotel, which once again offered valuable insight into the county’s evolving property landscape. Please read on for more details.
10.11.2025
Supreme Court Clarifies Role of Planning Authorities in ‘Nutrient Neutrality’ CaseThe Supreme Court has overturned a previous refusal relating to nutrient neutrality, confirming that Local Planning Authorities cannot revisit matters already approved at the outline planning stage when considering later applications or the discharge of conditions. Please read on for further details.
04.11.2025
Natural England Withdraws ‘Water Neutrality’ AdviceNatural England has confirmed that it has withdrawn its ‘water neutrality’ advice for parts of West Sussex, marking an important step forward for housing delivery in the region. The change follows close collaboration between government agencies and Southern Water to agree new long-term environmental safeguards that protect the Arun Valley’s sensitive habitats while enabling sustainable development to resume across Horsham, Crawley and Chichester.
03.11.2025
Update: Lords Amend Planning Bill on Nature Recovery – What It Means for DevelopmentDHA Planning closely follows the developments surrounding the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, particularly its implications for nature recovery and sustainable development. On Friday, the House of Lords voted to amend the bill, limiting the scope of its nature recovery provisions to air and water quality impacts at a strategic landscape scale. Please read on for further details.
15.10.2025
DHA Planning Shortlisted for Two Prestigious Awards at the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence 2025DHA Planning Group is delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for two categories at the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence 2025, one of the most esteemed recognitions in the planning industry.
14.10.2025
Government’s Latest Amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill: Key Changes Impacting Planning Permissions and DevelopmentThe UK government has proposed several significant amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently under review in the House of Lords. These proposed changes aim to streamline the planning process, tackle delays, and enhance the delivery of critical infrastructure and housing projects. With a particular focus on addressing ongoing challenges in the planning system, the government seeks to accelerate development, support the renewable energy agenda, and ensure timely project delivery. Here’s a breakdown of the key updates that could reshape the landscape of planning permissions and development across the country.
09.10.2025
Thousands of New Homes Unlocked in North Sussex — Progress at Last for Stalled SitesA landmark agreement between government, regulators and industry has ended the four-year halt on housing delivery in North Sussex. The deal, which safeguards local wetlands and wildlife while unlocking around 21,000 homes, marks a major breakthrough in efforts to balance environmental protection with the need for new housing — and provides the clarity the sector has long been waiting for.
06.10.2025
Major Planning Reforms Expected Ahead of BudgetSignificant planning reforms are expected to be announced ahead of next month’s Budget, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves looks to boost investment and address the UK’s slow economic growth. Please read on for further details.
02.10.2025
New Towns Taskforce: Report to GovernmentAn overview of the recently published recommended locations for new towns.
23.09.2025
Local Plan Update: What’s Happening Across Kent?As we head into Autumn 2025, several key Kent authorities are progressing with their Local Plans — with consultations now live, deadlines approaching, and critical decisions looming. At DHA Planning, we’ve prepared a snapshot of where each authority stands, helping landowners, developers, and stakeholders keep track of important opportunities and timeframes.
22.09.2025
Government Approves Second Runway at Gatwick Airport: A Landmark Decision for the RegionThe UK Government has formally approved the long-anticipated expansion of London Gatwick Airport — a pivotal development that represents one of the most significant aviation infrastructure projects in the UK in recent years. The £2.2 billion scheme, which will bring Gatwick’s existing Northern Runway into regular use, is expected to unlock major economic growth, deliver thousands of new jobs, and strengthen the region’s role as a national and international transport hub. For the wider Gatwick Diamond and local business community, the announcement is not just about aviation—it’s about regeneration, resilience, and long-term investment in the future of the South East.
12.09.2025
Government's ‘Build, Baby, Build’ Call to ArmsThe new Housing Secretary, Steve Reed MP, has today issued an emphatic “call to arms” to developers, housebuilders and the planning industry, urging them to help deliver 1.5 million homes in this Parliament under the banner of “Build, Baby, Build”
09.09.2025
High Court Quashes Planning Permission over Section 106 Transparency FailingsFollowing our article in April on the Court of Appeal overturning a High Court decision that had previously allowed planning permission for 473 homes — due to a Council’s failure to publish a draft Section 106 agreement prior to granting approval—another judgment has now quashed a Council’s consent for 181 homes on similar grounds. This latest ruling reaffirms the legal requirement for draft Section 106 agreements to be made public before planning decisions are issued.
02.09.2025
Planning Bill Amendments: What They Mean for Nature Recovery and DevelopmentAs part of ongoing reforms to the planning system, the government has proposed amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill focused on nature recovery and environmental protections. These changes have important implications for how future development and conservation efforts will be balanced. Below, we provide a summary of the key proposals and what they could mean in practice for developers, landowners, and local authorities.
01.09.2025
Funding Changes Threaten Future of Planning ApprenticeshipsThe planning profession faces a critical challenge following the government’s announcement to withdraw funding for Level 7 (master’s level) planning apprenticeships for individuals aged 22 and over from 2026. This decision risks reducing the number of skilled planners entering the sector, particularly impacting local authorities where demand is greatest. DHA Planning responds to these concerns and highlights the urgent need for a strategic approach to safeguard the future planning workforce.
11.08.2025
DHA Summer Update: Local Plan Moves and Housing Headlines Across the South East & LondonBuilding on our April 2025 update, this article provides DHA Planning’s latest overview of Local Plan progress and housing developments across South East England and London for Summer 2025.
30.07.2025
Building Safety Levy – July 2025 UpdateAlongside the Building Safety Levy Regulations, the Government have now published Guidance which provides further detail on how the levy will be charged. Here we review what this means for developers.
28.07.2025
DHA Planning Celebrates Regional Success at the RTPI South East Awards for Planning Excellence 2025We were delighted to attend and support the RTPI South East Awards for Planning Excellence 2025, an inspiring evening celebrating the positive impact of planning across the region. As proud sponsors of this year’s event, DHA Planning welcomed the opportunity to recognise the exceptional plans, projects and professionals that are helping to shape better places and stronger communities.
21.07.2025
Planning Approval Secured for Major Expansion of Historic Hever CastleDHA Planning Group is proud to announce that we have successfully secured full planning and listed building consent for the sensitive expansion and evolution of Hever Castle — a world-renowned Grade I listed heritage site located in Edenbridge, Kent.
07.07.2025
Re-Balancing the North – South Divide: Town Planning Opportunities and Challenges in Leeds and North YorkshireAs we open our new hub in Leeds, we explore the fast-evolving landscape of planning and development in the North of England.
02.07.2025
Government Issues Guidance on Upcoming Changes to Written Representation AppealsOn 25th June 2025, the Government published a new guidance note outlining key changes to the written representation appeals process — a move intended to speed up decision-making and bring greater clarity and consistency to the planning appeals system. The reforms are part of wider efforts to modernise the planning system and reduce delays in development delivery.
16.06.2025
Government Proposes National Scheme to Streamline Planning DecisionsThe Government is preparing to overhaul the planning system through a new National Scheme of Delegation, designed to accelerate decision-making by giving planning officers greater authority. Read on for full details of the proposed changes and their potential impact.
11.06.2025
The Chancellor builds the case for “Securonomics”Today saw the announcement of Chancellor Rachel Reeves long awaited spending review and DHA's Amy Negus and Patrick Good look at the key headlines below.
09.06.2025
DHA Charity Challenge 2025: Going the Extra Mile for Three Incredible CausesOn Thursday 5th June, a team from DHA smashed its ambitious target of running and cycling 1,000 miles in 24 hours, raising more than £6,000 for three charities. Find out more below.
28.05.2025
A busy week for MHCLGThis week has seen the release of two working papers and two technical consultations by The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, to help speed up the delivery of new homes.
20.05.2025
DHA shortlisted for RTPI awardDHA have once again been shortlisted for the Royal Town Planning Institute's South East Awards for Planning Excellence.
12.05.2025
Launch of New London Plan ConsultationA new London Plan consultation has been launched by the London Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan. DHA London's Patrick Reedman looks at the key headlines below.
29.04.2025
Planning Permission and Scheduled Monument Consent secured for Abbey Farm, LeedsDHA Planning Group is pleased to have secured planning permission and Scheduled Monument Consent for the construction of a new country house, two 'gatekeeper' cottages, historic landscape restoration and the repair and restoration of the upstanding remains of the former Leeds Abbey (Kent), including the Dovecote and Slype.
28.04.2025
Big Congratulations to DHA's Mark Bewsey for completing the London Marathon 2025Congratulations to DHA's Mark Bewsey for completing the London Marathon 2025 yesterday....
23.04.2025
Does Golden Rules mean Golden Times for Green Belt?Following the publication of the revised NPPF in December 2024, the industry is still waiting for the Government’s promised updated viability planning practice guidance. DHA's Danielle Lawrence looks at the implications of the ‘Golden Rules’ on development viability.
22.04.2025
High Court Ruling overturned due to LPA failing to publish S106 prior to granting approvalThe Court of Appeal has overturned a High Court ruling, which had allowed planning permission for the erection of 473 new homes on land in Ryde on the Isle of Wight, due to the Council failing to publish the Section 106 planning obligation on its website prior to permission being granted.
22.04.2025
DHA's Viability TeamDHA’s Development Viability team has grown from strength to strength having initially been set up by MD Alex Hicken, and now led by Danielle Lawrence.
10.04.2025
Blueprint Spring 2025Our Spring newsletter highlighting some of our key planning successes.
01.04.2025
Basement Extensions in London: DHA's AdviceIn a city where every square foot of space counts, this article explores the possibilities for basement extensions and outlines the key policies and regulations that need to be considered before you get started.
25.03.2025
Lower Thames Crossing given the go aheadThe Secretary of State has today granted Development Consent for the Lower Thames Crossing, a new 14-mile A-road that will link the A2 in Kent with the A13 and M25 in Essex through the longest road tunnel in the UK.
24.03.2025
Building Safety Levy LatestFrom Autumn 2026 Developers will be required to pay a building safety levy for homes they build. Rates will vary across local authorities in England and will be charged on a £/sqm basis, with schemes on brownfield sites receiving a 50% levy discount. For example, this will mean a new 200 sqm home on a greenfield site, in Sevenoaks in could cost around £8,500 a unit, in addition to any CIL or Section 106 Contributions which might be due. DHA’s head of development viability Danielle Lawrence takes a closer look at what this means.
18.03.2025
Vacant Building Credits - What is it and how can it be used?The Vacant Building Credit (VBC) came into force through the publication of planning guidance on 28 November 2014. Since then, it is becoming more widely recognised as a useful mechanism for boosting the viability of brownfield sites. In this article, DHA's Viability Lead, Danielle Lawrence looks at what Vacant Building Credit (VBC) is and how it can be used to make substantial savings.
11.03.2025
Planning and Infrastructure Bill introduces radical planning reformsThe Government first announced in the King’s Speech in July 2024 that the Planning and Infrastructure Bill would be introduced in this parliamentary session, and in January, the Secretary of State for Housing Angela revealed the bill was likely to be tabled “around March”. However, the landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill has now been introduced to Parliament and DHA looks at some of its key planning reform measures.
06.03.2025
Court of Appeal clarifies status of Planning Practice GuidanceA Court of Appeal judgment has confirmed that National Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) has “equivalent” legal status to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The ruling means that planners are going to have to pay more attention to the former, say legal experts, and clarifies how councils and developers should approach the flood risk sequential test.
25.02.2025
Government's Grey Belt plans starting to take effectThe new NPPF has been in effect for a couple of months now, and we are starting to see more and more appeal decisions reference the ‘grey belt’, including DHA Planning's own appeal decision for land at former Court Lane Nurseries, Hadlow.
12.02.2025
Government plans to make it easier for nuclear power plants to be allowedAs part of the Prime Minister’s ‘Plan for Change’ to grow the economy and deliver cleaner, more affordable energy, reforms to planning rules have been announced to allow nuclear reactors, known as Small Modular Reactors.
05.02.2025
'Landmark' ruling has ramifications for Section 73 ApplicationsAccording to experts, a recent Court of Appeal ruling quashing a council’s consent for changes to a solar farm and electricity substation permission is a “landmark” decision that has major implications for the scope of variations that can be made under section 73 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. DHA Planning's Laura Jackson considers this further below.
30.01.2025
Government's commitment to national infrastructure and economic growth continuesAfter Rachel Reeves announced government support for a third runway at Heathrow in a bid to create 100,000 jobs, DHA Environment's Tim Spicer looks at what else the government is doing to deliver their 'Plan for Change' milestones, which include 150 decisions being issued on major infrastructure projects by the end of the Parliament.
22.01.2025
Biggest Shakeup to Kent Parking Standards in 18 years...Kent County Council has recently adopted new Parking Standards for developments in Kent.
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