They also seek to look at the effects these changes have had at a local level, for example on the ability of local authorities to plan development, developer contributions and the provision of services to meet changing local needs.

Committee chair Clive Betts commented: "Local communities face an unprecedented challenge. The Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown has placed severe pressures on urban environments that were already struggling. As we look to return to normal life we still don’t know what the long-term outlook will be, both in terms of the viability of existing commercial and office space or the need for domestic housing."

"Given these uncertainties, it is crucial that the right framework is in place to support local communities to adapt to meet the new reality, whatever it may be. The Government has indicated its intention to use permitted development rights to allow greater flexibility in how buildings are used, removing the need for planning approval for switching use between offices, shops and housing under certain circumstances."

"We have launched this inquiry to understand the implications of this approach. Does it provide sufficient scope for local authorities to set out a coherent plan that addresses local needs? How well does it support the Government's broader goals for economic development and housing capacity? Fundamentally, do they enable the economic and societal recovery we need?"