There seems to be much debate and difference of opinion about how to claw back excess profits as a result of granting planning permission (17 February). Is a strategy based on the following a possibility?

  • The government or authorities buy up sites for future development (compulsory purchase and at appropriate market rates)
  • Provide basic infrastructure
  • Grant planning permission
  • Sell at an appropriate market rate
  • Allow purchasers to propose planning permission they would prefer (an alternative price is acceptable).
Any gain is then automatic and developers would know where they stand. Granted, there is the question of whether the authorities would be competent enough to do this.

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