Propertymark, a prominent authority within the property sector, is advocating for a holistic reform of commercial planning processes to foster sustainable growth and economic development. By championing greater efficiency and transparency, the organisation aims to invigorate the commercial real estate landscape nationwide, benefitting both businesses and local communities alike.
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At the heart of Propertymark’s agenda is the overhaul of the commercial planning application process. Currently, the protracted and often intricate procedures act as significant hindrances to economic revitalisation. Businesses aspiring to establish operations in commercial spaces face substantial delays due to the sluggish determination of property use classes by local authorities. To address these inefficiencies, Propertymark proposes the creation of a centralised database, potentially integrated with the land registry or the valuation office. This centralised system would streamline processes, facilitate quicker transactions, and cultivate a more favourable environment for commercial activities.
Moreover, Propertymark stresses the necessity for clear guidance and uniformity in the auctioning of commercial properties by local councils, particularly through schemes like the High Street Rental Auctions. Michael Sears, a representative from NAEA Propertymark, underscores the critical need for transparency and fairness in these auctions to ensure equitable opportunities for all stakeholders. By advocating for explicit guidelines, Propertymark aims to smoothen transactions and foster fair competition within the commercial property market.
Beyond refining planning processes, Propertymark is a vigorous proponent of sustainable growth within the commercial property sector. The government’s stringent energy efficiency mandates require commercial properties in England and Wales to attain Energy Performance Certification (EPC) Band B by 2030, with an interim target of EPC Band C by 2028. Propertymark highlights the urgent need for financial support to help landlords meet these decarbonisation targets. The organisation is actively pushing for the introduction of financial grants to assist commercial landlords in complying with these energy efficiency requisites.
Propertymark’s commitment to sustainable practices is further evidenced by its recent dialogue with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. During this engagement, the organisation sought clarity on the Prime Minister’s amendments to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for commercial agents. By advocating for clear guidelines and robust compliance mechanisms, Propertymark aims to reinforce adherence to energy efficiency regulations within the commercial property industry and promote sustainable practices across the sector.
The enactment of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act, which received Royal Assent on 26th October 2023, further bolsters Propertymark’s efforts. This transformative legislation empowers local councils with discretionary authority to mandate auctions of vacant high street premises. Successful bidders are granted tenancies, thereby contributing to the rejuvenation of neglected commercial spaces. Propertymark emphasises the importance of transparency and fairness in the auctioning process to maintain the integrity of these initiatives and ensure equitable participation from all interested parties.
In addition to advocating for streamlined planning and sustainable growth, Propertymark recommends a reduction in business rates as a strategy to decrease the prevalence of vacant commercial buildings. This proposal aims to incentivise property occupancy, revitalise commercial areas, and stimulate economic activity, thereby fostering community development across various regions. The organisation’s multifaceted approach underscores its dedication to driving positive change and enhancing the vibrancy of commercial spaces nationwide.
The creation of a comprehensive database detailing current permitted uses for commercial properties is another key aspect of Propertymark’s broader objectives. While local councils already provide online planning portals to access a building’s planning history, the integration of a centralised database connected to key registries could further streamline the planning permission process and empower stakeholders with valuable insights for informed decision-making.
Propertymark’s proactive stance in advocating for streamlined commercial planning applications and sustainable growth initiatives represents a concerted industry-wide effort to promote efficiency, transparency, and sustainability within the property sector. As the government continues its focus on revitalising high streets and advancing energy efficiency goals, collaboration between industry stakeholders and policymakers will be crucial in driving meaningful progress and fostering a conducive environment for economic prosperity and sustainable development in commercial real estate.
In essence, Propertymark’s comprehensive strategy highlights the interconnected nature of efficient planning, equitable auction practices, sustainability, and economic development. By addressing these critical areas, Propertymark aims to create a thriving commercial property market that not only supports businesses and landlords but also aligns with the broader economic and environmental objectives of the nation. The organisation’s advocacy for streamlined processes, financial grants for energy efficiency, and transparent auction practices epitomises its commitment to nurturing a vibrant, sustainable, and equitable commercial property sector.
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