Planning boss urges caution on new rules

New planning laws set to be introduced next month could prove misleading to householders, according to local reports.

The law changes will relax requirements on single-storey extensions but other types of buildings may require new planning permission, says the Scarborough Evening News.

Pauline Elliott, Scarborough council's head of regeneration and planning, told the paper that householders and builders needed to make themselves aware of the changes before starting new work.

"Failure to take this into account may lead to conflict with local planning policies and ultimately possible enforcement action," she said.

Mrs Elliott added that a number of buildings which had already been approved may now need new planning permission.

New applications may be required for driveways, extensions or conservatories to the rear or side of the house and decking over 30 cm in height, among other things.

Scarborough borough council had already introduced changes to the planning system earlier this year in April.