Coalition calls for a rethink over planning reforms

A group of 18 housing, environmental and public health groups has urged ministers to reconsider controversial plans to reform the planning system.

The coalition has produced an alternative ‘Vision for Planning’ in response to the government’s planning white paper, which was published in August last year.

The document urges the government to protect and enhance local green spaces, give communities a legally guaranteed say on specific planning projects and delivers enough quality affordable and social homes for rent to meet local needs.

The coalition includes the Ramblers, CPRE The Countryside Charity, RSPB, the Open Spaces Society, Friends of The Earth, the Town and Country Planning Association and the Woodland Trust.

The government’s planning reforms have also faced opposition from its own backbench MPs and the Local Government Association.

Although in December, housing secretary Robert Jenrick announced there will be an updated housing need formula, which will prioritise brownfield sites and urban areas.

‘During the pandemic, we’ve seen just how important planning is,’ said the Rambler’s director of advocacy and engagement, Tom Platt.

‘Those fortunate enough to have easy access to a local park or green space, have benefitted physically and mentally.

‘We have a chance now to learn from past mistakes and set a new course for greener, healthier, and more sustainable communities. The decisions we make today will impact the lives of millions for generations to come and the alternative Vision for Planning gives a solid foundation for this.’

In response, the Local Government Association’s housing spokesperson, Cllr David Renard said: ‘To ensure a successful recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, communities need stability and certainty in planning. This can only be achieved through a locally-led, well-resourced planning system where communities have a proper say over developments in their local area.

‘This means local areas having oversight of issues that matter to them most such as protecting the environment and ensuring new developments are climate-friendly for current and future generations.’