Can my neighbour build without planning permission now the law has changed?

[grandehorizontale]

I understand that the planning laws have changed. My neighbour has just had a load of building materials delivered. He has not applied for planning permission but has always made it clear that he wanted to build on the back of his property - two new houses. I know the planning laws changed yesterday - but does that do away with the need to apply for planning permission altogether?

I’m not sure the changes mean that someone can build two additional houses in their back garden. Sounds as though a call to your local planning office is in order to make enquiries.

Are you sure it's not a garden room/cabin/office thing? Those can be built without planning permission, but no you can not build two new houses in your garden!

He can't build 2 new houses without planning permission.

This site has the rules:

www.gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales/when-you-dont-need-it

This site more clear in discussing extensions, etc.:

hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-improving/do-i-need-planning-permission/

It's a travesty that the rules have been relaxed IMO.