Further Planning Reforms Incoming!

Ahead of the Chancellor's speech this week on economic growth, the Government yesterday (26/01/25) announced how it will go further and faster to deliver their Plan for Change to deliver 1.5million homes over 5 years.

Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Angela Rayner said:

"From day one I have been clear that bold action is needed to remove the blockers who put a chokehold on growth. That’s why we are putting growth at the heart of our planning system."

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Professionally, I look forward to the Government publishing their next steps on planning reform, which includes streamlining a set of national policies for decision making to guide planning decisions by LPA's and promote housebuilding in key areas such as near commuter transport hubs.

As I am based in the North West, it is interesting to hear the Chancellor also revealed she is championing a regeneration project around Old Trafford (Greater Manchester) for housing, commercial and public spaces, great for investors in that area.

Yesterday the Government also published a working paper that invites views for further action the Government should take to reform the planning system but focusing on nation Infrastructure Projects✅ .

Exciting times for those delivering energy infrastructure!

Key options the paper considers are:

👉🏻 a. reviewing National Policy Statements (NPSs) on a more regular basis and making it easier to update them in the interim;

👉🏻 b. protecting the role of consultation in the consenting process but making it less burdensome;

👉🏻 c. supporting delivery of infrastructure post-consent;

👉🏻 d. allowing for appropriate flexibility in the process applied to projects where this is merited; and

👉🏻 e. strengthening statutory guidance to ensure clarity over what is and is not required.

 The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is expected for Spring 2025.

 What would you like to see as part of the planning reforms?

(I've got my own hitlist)