With building development and planning growth in many places around the world expanding at an alarming pace, it’s inevitable that different regions and countries will have their own laws, processes and regulations that planners and construction companies have to abide by. Some laws may be made to control existing growth, or some to expanding areas of development to preserve protected regions. Here are a few interesting examples of planning processes around the world and a few pointers to what we in the UK may be able to learn from them.
Scandinavia, and much of Sweden in particular, have just introduced new planning laws which aims to make the process much more transparent. The law approaches matters surrounding climate change, disability access and green spaces early on in the process – with clear requirements spelled out and no claims available if the permission is granted. A lot of Europe could learn from the region’s fresh approach to climate change and the ecological impact of urban development.
Hong Kong is one of the world’s most affluent and cosmopolitan areas, and its planning laws match the description. Once a British colony, the area now makes the most of its real estate – with developers building up rather than out and creating stunning high-rise apartments and a skyline to match. Clever use of zoning, districts and complex building structures ensures that planning permission is hard to come by – which also keeps property values high.
Like many European countries, the Netherlands have a complex planning law structure which maintains an emphasis on zoning and district organisation when it comes to building up their urban areas. There is a lot to learn however – they have a creative approach which allows flexibility for artists, architects and designers to express their creative freedom – such as in these cube houses. Their approach to traffic and green spaces also could be useful for many countries – making sure residents feel safe and welcome in urban areas.
In Britain, the town and country planning act introduced in 1947 still, for the most part, holds true today. Planning permission might vary, but it is a general agreement that we all share equal rights to have our say as to what gets built where. For more information about planning law, planning permission appeals or anything to do with planning in the UK, Kingsley Smith Solicitors are industry experts and would be happy to help.
