Thank you for contacting me about planning permissions during the outbreak of Covid-19.
I understand your concern about the effect of planning permissions lapsing and I agree that clarity for communities is important at this time. I have ensured that my ministerial colleagues are aware of the situation and am told they are considering whether or not to introduce an extension for those permissions that are in danger of lapsing.
Local authorities should continue to focus on decision-making during the outbreak and seek to use all options available to them to facilitate this. This includes the use of technology where appropriate.
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