Draft National Planning Policy Framework Published for Consultation
After more leaks than a Welsh vegetable show, the Government has finally published its Draft National Planning Policy Framework for formal consultation http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/1951747.pdf. The development industry at large is generally receiving this as a very positive document, stripping as it does the 1,000’s of pages of current guidance, down into 58 simple to read statements of strategic policy direction. That in itself is useful, but without merit if there is not a clear vision, and agenda for growth. This document does that, with strong statements, such as ‘The primary objective of development management is to foster the delivery of sustainable development, not to hinder or prevent development’, and of course the much trailed ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development’.
It will need a change of mindset in many, but by no means all, Local Authority departments to deliver this Agenda for Growth. Interestingly, the National Trust were the first out the blocks upon its release to challenge the implications of the impact this commitment to growth may have on the environment. But in a fragile economy, with unemployment in the public sector still rising, it will be fascinating to see if such concern engages the wider public voice.
Alliance Planning will be making submissions on the text, and if your organisation would like their specific viewpoint made we would be happy to pass on those views within our own paper. Please speak to any of the Alliance Directors.
