Just before Christmas, the Government opened its consultation on how it might update national planning policy. The consultation proposes some “significant changes which could have important consequences”, says Planning and Regeneration Director Mel Clinton.
In his summary of the changes outlined in the consultation document, Mel says the reforms fall broadly into two categories. These are 1) specific changes, due to come into effect this spring (2023) and 2) a wider review following Royal Ascent of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill.
The more immediate changes address issues including the presumption in favour of sustainable development, housing need/supply, density, green belt boundaries, retrofitting and climate change, and food production. Key areas of focus for the wider review include housing, protecting the environment and tackling climate change, national development management policies and plan-making. So, “plenty to chew on”, as Mel says.
Read the full version of Mel’s summary of the consultation document, or get in touch for support in responding to the consultation (which closes on 2 March 2023).
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