by George Hopkins | Sep 14, 2026
From 1 October 2026, the new Building Safety Levy will come into effect in England, introducing an additional cost for certain residential developments. The levy will principally affect major residential developments of 10 or more new dwellings, or developments providing 30 or more purpose-built student accommodation bedspaces.
The levy has been introduced to raise funds to help meet the costs of addressing building safety defects in residential buildings across England.
The amount payable will be calculated against the chargeable residential floorspace, with rates varying between local authority areas. Exemptions apply to certain developments, including qualifying social and supported housing.
Building control applications submitted before 1 October 2026 will not be subject to the levy. Applications submitted on or after this date may be liable where the relevant criteria are met.
Developers with residential schemes currently progressing towards the Building Regulations stage should therefore review their programmes and consider the potential implications of the levy now.
by George Hopkins | Jun 1, 2026
Calling all landowners and developers with land in Stroud District!
Stroud District are undertaking a Call for Sites (housing and employment land) as part of the Emerging Local Plan process.
The council is seeking submissions of land that may be suitable for:
- housing;
- employment development; and/or
- other appropriate land uses such as Infrastructure
If you have land to be submitted to the Call for Sites please get in contact by email mail@brodieplanning.co.uk or phone 01242 898 368.
by George Hopkins | Jan 6, 2026
One of our projects has been featured in a recent BBC article, highlighting proposals to redevelop the former Jump Arena site in Leeds. The scheme would transform a long-vacant, fire-damaged site into a modern and sleek padel sports centre, creating new jobs, delivering high-quality leisure facilities, and providing an inclusive space that supports health and wellbeing. This project exemplifies BPA’s commitment to delivering sustainable, community-focused development, supporting regeneration and long-term place-making.
Read the full BBC article here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clyz38xyveyo
by George Hopkins | Dec 17, 2025
It Must Be Christmas: A Draft NPPF to Keep Us Busy Until March 2026
The Government has released the consultation draft of a new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) just in time for Christmas.
The draft can be found here: National Planning Policy Framework: draft text for consultation
The consultation document can be found here: National Planning Policy Framework: proposed reforms and other changes to the planning system
For decision-making, the new NPPF would only come into force once it is formally published next year. Until then, the current NPPF remains in place. The consultation runs until 10 March 2026.
However, some of the key headlines include:
- A permanent presumption in favour of suitably located development
- Encouragement of a diverse mix of homes
- Support for small and medium-sized sites
- A positive approach to heritage assets
For now, grab a mince pie and dive into some festive reading with the new draft NPPF.
We will provide a more detailed analysis in the new year – watch this space.
by George Hopkins | Nov 13, 2025
We are proud to be one of the many supporting Sara Cox on her 135-mile run for Children in Need. Run Sara runnnnn!!
by George Hopkins | Nov 11, 2025
Please follow the link below.
Why_AI_can’t_replace_us_as_Planners
