The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is welcoming moves to speed up planning decisions but is warning that faster approvals alone will not protect consumers from rogue builders.
Brian Berry Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders said:
"Faster planning decisions are vital to ensure the nation's small builders can deliver building projects without unnecessary costs and delays. Loft conversions, extensions, and conservatories are the lifeblood of small building companies but too often, unnecessary delays in the planning process means work that should be starting is put on hold. This creates cash flow problems for builders who can't plan ahead when decisions drag on for months over straightforward applications.
"However, it is also the quality of the work itself that matters. Currently, anyone can call themselves a builder, even when planning is involved, and homeowners have no way of knowing who to trust. We want the Government to match this planning ambition with equal urgency and introduce a Licence to Build."
