Reform of the planning system is a central priority for the new government as it offers the potential to address the current housing crisis whilst also delivering wider economic growth.
A consultation covering changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has been issued setting out the government’s plans including:
- A new methodology for calculating local authority housing targets designed to support delivery of the Government’s manifesto commitment of 1.5 million new homes in this Parliament.
- A broader definition of brownfield land and an assumption that applications to develop brownfield land will be approved.
- Recognition that to achieve housebuilding targets, councils will need to consider development on parts of the Green Belt that are of low environmental quality, referred to as the ‘grey belt’.
- Clarifications around the ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development’ including new safeguards against poor quality development.
- Raising building densities in urban areas.
- Measures to improve the delivery of affordable and social housing with an increased priority and focus on social rent.
The consultation runs from 30th August 2024 to 24th September 2024
