Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Retail Update

30 November 2020 · Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

Proposed by Robert Jenrick Reform Newark

Business & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • Retailers are to be informed of a temporary relaxation of planning controls that restrict opening times.
  • Local planning authorities are asked to take a positive stance towards retailers during this period.
  • The relaxation applies to December and January, aimed at extending retail opening hours for Christmas.

Issue summary

The minister is updating on measures to relax local restrictions and allow extended retail opening hours for Christmas.

Action requested

Local planning authorities are requested to take a positive approach towards retailers, not enforcing planning controls that restrict opening times during December and January. Retailers should be informed of this temporary relaxation.

Key facts

  • Section 23 of the Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994 removed restrictions on shop opening hours.
  • Local planning authorities should ensure their engagement with retailers does not hinder extended retail hours from December to January.
  • Planning enforcement is a discretionary activity, local authorities should act proportionately during this period.
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