"The new Section 73B, introduced in the Levelling-Up and Regeneration Act 2023, is intended to fill that gap. It would provide a formal route to vary permissions as long as the outcome is not "substantially different" from the original consent. This means that, in future, a homeowner could request small design or material adjustments to an approved extension - such as a modest footprint change or revised window placement - without needing to start over."
"(Image credit: Getty Images) Changing your home plans after getting planning permission could soon become a lot easier under new government proposals. Ministers have confirmed plans for an "alternative mechanism" - linked to Section 73B of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 - that would allow approved developments to be modified without the need for a full reapplication. If introduced, it could mean homeowners wanting to alter their self-build plans, extensions, or update materials after approval will face fewer hurdles and faster decisions."
Section 73B creates a formal route to vary approved planning permissions where the outcome is not substantially different from the original consent. Homeowners could request modest design or material adjustments—for example small footprint changes or revised window placement—without submitting a full new application. The measure aims to reduce delays, fees and administrative burden that currently require new applications for minor alterations. The reforms seek to speed local planning decisions, make more use of planners' professional judgement, and allow elected councillors to focus on the most significant or controversial proposals. The change targets self-builds, extensions and similar household projects.
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