²A dangerous precedent

The car park was first in operation during summer 2020 under ‘permitted development’ rules. These normally allow land to be used for car parking without planning permission for 28 days. However, this was extended to 56 days in light of COVID-19 as an emergency measure in response to the influx of visitors experienced when lockdown #1 was lifted at the same time as a long period of very warm weather. Several temporary car parks were created in the open countryside under these relaxed rules. We think a firm line should be drawn by the LDNPA to make clear that proposals to make permanent any temporary car parks allowed under the currently relaxed permitted development rules will not automatically be looked upon favourably and will require the same scrutiny as any other new proposal under the strict criteria set out in the Local Plan.