The Government has launched a consultation on making changes to the existing permitted development right for commercial film-making. Currently the right is subject to a number of restrictions and the calls from the industry that these are too limiting seems to have been heard.
The key proposed changes are:
- An increase in the maximum time period for land to be used for commercial film-making from 9 months to 12 months in any 27 month period - the intention is to allow time for the construction, operation and clearance of the site for larger productions.
- An increase in the maximum area of land which can benefit from this right from 1.5 hectares to 3 hectares.
- An increase in the maximum height of any temporary structure provided under the right from 15 metres to 20 metres.
It is clear the aim of these proposed changes is to support the delivery of larger productions and the continued expansion of the film industry.
The consultation specifically recognises that there has been a rapid growth in production in recent years and in issuing this consultation, it appears the Government recognises the role the planning system can play in continuing to fuel the growth of the sector. But do these proposals go far enough?
The consultation will close on 25 April 2023 so act now to make your views heard.
To learn more about Forsters' experience in supporting Studios clients with their planning needs, get in touch with our Studios Group.
The industry has provided feedback that the permitted development right, although useful for some productions, is too restrictive and therefore allowing additional flexibility would further support the recent rapid growth in production.
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