The proposals seek to change a law that restricts what building types can be used to provide childcare. Currently, nurseries are limited to buildings categorised as 'non residential, assembly and leisure'. But the change could see nurseries springing up in disused offices, hotels, hospitals and prisons without owners having to apply for planning permission.
Under current regulations, providers wishing to operate from a building with a 'use class' outside of what is permitted for nurseries can apply for a 'change of use permission'. National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) policy director Claire Schofield said this process has caused problems for nurseries.
NDNA has raised the issue with the Department for Education for the past three years, after members reported spending months on costly applications. 'People sometimes get professional advice to get them through the planning process, which can become expensive,' said Ms Schofield.
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