What are covenant consents?

Some properties in Milton Keynes, owned by Milton Keynes City Council or built on land we owned in the past, might have covenants attached to their freehold title. This means there may be a restriction of use and certain types of development that their owners may carry out. In most circumstances, we may be prepared to relax these covenants subject to payment of an administration fee and/or premium where applicable.

When the need for a relaxation of the covenant arises, the Estates Team will identify whether the application is in respect of works, activities or changes to be carried out or if done retrospectively. They will investigate whether the proposed relaxation of covenant is acceptable and if it is, they will write to the property owner, advising them of their current or intended ‘breach’, request plans identifying the proposed works and the relevant administration fee.

When the relevant fee is paid, Estates will issue a letter confirming that the council has consented to the relaxation of the covenant. If the fee is not paid, the covenant is not relaxed.

Residential covenant relaxation fees - 1 January 2021 reviewed annually

• relaxation of covenant in advance of proposed works - £tbc
• fast track (response within 5 working days from receipt of full documentation and payment) - £tbc
• retrospective consent - £tbc

Payments can be taken by phone, details will be provided at time of application.

How to apply

Please complete the online Residential Covenant Consent Application Form to apply for residential covenant relaxation.

Please note: Restrictions or covenants on deeds relating to Milton Keynes Development Corporation, Commissions for New Towns, English Partnerships or Homes & Communities Agency cannot be released by the Council. You can contact Homes England who manage these consents.