Temporary structure guidance
In most circumstances, new buildings on private land and in Cheltenham’s award winning parks and gardens (where businesses already operate from these spaces) need planning permission. Covid-19 presented a wide range of challenges to the safe and ongoing operation of many business and organisations in our town. One issue that become clear was the need, in some instances, for more physical space to accommodate social distancing and safe operations. For some, temporary structures/buildings (for example portable cabins, portable buildings, portable welfare blocks, covered areas) may provide a solution to this issue on a temporary basis.
To support businesses working within the challenges of COVID-19 circumstances Cheltenham Borough Council allowed temporary structures/buildings to be placed on land without planning permission, this was reviewed and this provision has now been extended until 30 September 2022 in certain circumstances to ensure the successful running of existing businesses and organisations in the town. This is a proactive approach to enforcement of planning controls and not a planning permission. This will not apply to residential properties.
The Government has recognised the success of moveable structures for businesses following temporary permitted development regulations during the second half of 2021; these regulations have recently been made permanent. The regulations have been split into two categories; a) ‘moveable structures for pubs, restaurants etc’ and b) ‘moveable structures for historic visitor attractions and listed pubs, restaurants etc’. See the below links for more information and the full permitted development right regulations.
If your structure falls within the above permitted development change, we will still consider your structure as part of this initiative.
To take advantage of this initiative, businesses and organisations will need to make a request to the council, and council officers will undertake a brief assessment of the request. Please note our guidance is currently being refreshed, in the meantime should you have a site you wish to discuss please email [email protected]