New Transparency Regulations for Contractual Control Agreements
Commercial Property regulations are set to change in April 2027, introducing new requirements for certain agreements relating to land in England and Wales. The aim is to improve visibility over who has control over land and how this may affect future development or use of the land.
These regulations are expected to come into force on the 6th April 2027 and is intended to capture relevant retrospective agreements granted from the 8th of June 2026. Therefore, landowners, developers, investors and advisors should be considering the impact of these rules now.
So, what is changing?
This public register is intended to make land arrangements more transparent while still protecting commercially sensitive details. Therefore, it will not disclose the entire agreement but will provide enough information to identify the nature and extent of the relevant land and interest.
Who is likely to be affected?
These new requirements will apply to certain agreements affecting registered land in England and Wales. It is important to note that for leasehold land, the lease must have at least fifteen years remaining at the date the agreement is granted. Agreements lasting less than eighteen months are not expected to be applicable.
What information is made public?
The register is expected to show key details which include the type of contractual right, the land affected, parties involved, and the duration. However, sensitive commercial terms will not be made public.
Why does this matter to you?
The register should increase transparency in the land market and help local authorities, communities and market participants better understand existing land arrangements and potential future development activity.
Therefore, it is important to review relevant agreements early and consider whether future transactions may need to comply with the new disclosure requirements.
If you are unsure on whether any of your current agreements may qualify under the new regime, you should seek legal advice for guidance and review of your contractual agreements.
Want to know how these new regulations could affect your agreements? Get in touch with us today:
Walsall: 01922 720333 | walsall@enoch-evans.co.uk
Cannock: 01543 466941 | cannock@enoch-evans.co.uk
Sutton: 0121 355 2336 | sutton@enoch-evans.co.uk