Planning permission

BBC reports, "Plans to cut red tape and make it easier to build home extensions are expected to be announced by Communities Secretary Ruth Kelly next week.
A White Paper will propose an "impact" test for developments which would currently require planning permission. Under the proposals, such developments would no longer need permission where there is little impact on neighbours. "

The BBC fails to report that no-one needs planning permission for anything provided what is done complies with curent planning law. This is because under English common law everything not forbidden is permitted. So if the planning law does not prohibit what you are going to do you are at liberty to do it. You do not have to ask permission to obey any law. Contrast this with European law where everything is forbidden unless the law allows it.