Government agrees first Local Development Orders for Tees Valley enterprise zone

TVEZ is the first enterprise zone in the country to have its LDOs approved by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Eric Pickles. Local planning authorities can now adopt the plans with no interventions or amendments required.

A total of six LDOs were proposed by TVEZ, which apply to developments on Enterprise Zone sites at Queen's Meadow, Port Estates, Oakesway, Teesside Advanced Manufacturing Park, Kirkleatham Business Park and Darlington's Central Park.

"The LDOs grant pre-approved planning permission in line with key Enterprise Zone objectives, which critically saves time and money in the development process and will help make the sites attractive for investment," said Linda Edworthy, director of policy at Tees Valley Unlimited.

Tees Valley Unlimited conducted a public consultation on the LDOs before Christmas and, following consideration of comments from local authorities and the public, the orders have now been approved by Government.

The plans have been developed to benefit the sites whilst protecting the surrounding environment and the local community, said Edworthy. Tees Valley Unlimited worked with local authorities, the Environment Agency, Natural England, the Health and Safety Executive and the Highways Agency.

The TVEZ now allows businesses simplified planning rules and business rate relief across eight sites and Enhanced Capital Allowances across an additional four, to encourage investment and growth.

Some sites are also managed in accordance with Planning Performance Agreements, which establish a partnership framework and management programme for dealing with development proposals.