Stephen Hammond,MP, and Chris Kiely, from property website Rightmove, were speakers at a recent Planning and Property Seminar attended by dozens of local developers, builders and other property professionals.

Stephen Hammond is Parliamentary Private Secretary to Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.  

Stephen addressed the audience about proposed changes to the planning system. He is a former Hertfordshire resident having previously lived in Tewin and Codicote and spent 3 years as leader of the Stevenage Conservatives.  

July saw the publication of the Draft National Planning Policy Framework which the Government hopes will simplify the planning process and ease applications on former industrial or previously used land, often referred to as Brownfield. 

It is intended that areas of environmental, green belt and historic value will be safeguarded under the proposals, but that an easing of planning restrictions will go some way towards filling the need for many more homes, particularly in the South of England. 

Stephen detailed proposals that will encourage and reward Parish and Local Councils who promote sustainable development. 

Chris Kiely from Rightmove provided detailed information as to how the internet was helping the sale of New Homes and advised the audience of the latest trends in demand for Hertfordshire compared with other parts of the country. 

The seminar was organised by Mayfair Office members Putterills specialist Land and New Homes department based in Hitchin.  Director Mark Shearing said “We were delighted that such a senior member of the government involved with the proposed planning changes was willing to come and talk to us. It gave us all a clearer vision of how the changes may help the planning process, and gave local industry professionals an opportunity to voice their opinions and ideas as to how the proposals could be enhanced”.

Mark continued, “It was great to get an insight into marketing and moving trends from one of the country’s most well known websites and a many of the delegates learned a lot about the increasing influence of the internet on people’s buying habits”. 

“Overall, it was a hugely successful seminar and has helped keep Putterills and our clients at the forefront of developments in the property market.  This will also further enhance Putterills’ ability to advise on land and development matters, as well as offer a full and effective marketing package for new home sales”.