The UK Government is set to announce a significant shift in planning regulations to facilitate housing developments near train stations. Housing Secretary Steve Reed is expected to implement a “default yes” policy for projects within a 15-minute walk from well-connected train and tram stations. This initiative aims to support the ambitious target of constructing 1.5 million homes before the next election, addressing the ongoing housing crisis.
The proposed changes involve amending the National Planning Policy Framework, making it simpler to build on sites, including green belt land. Mr. Reed will unveil these measures on November 18, 2023, alongside other proposals aimed at expediting the housing approval process.
Details of the New Housing Policy
In addition to the “default yes” policy, the government intends to grant ministers the authority to intervene when local councils plan to reject large housing developments. Specifically, councils aiming to refuse planning permission for projects exceeding 150 homes will be required to notify the Government, thus allowing ministers to make the final decision.
Mr. Reed emphasized the necessity of constructing homes in the right locations, stating, “I promised we’d get Britain building and that’s exactly what we are doing. But it has to be the right homes in the right places, and nearby transport links are a vital part of that.” This sentiment echoes the Labour Party’s manifesto commitment to tackle the housing shortage.
To further streamline the process, the government plans to remove several organizations, including Sport England and The Gardens Trust, from the list of bodies that must be consulted on planning applications. This move is intended to cut down on delays and facilitate quicker decision-making.
Reactions to the Proposed Changes
The proposals have drawn mixed reactions from various stakeholders. Sam Richards, chief executive of the pro-growth campaign group Britain Remade, expressed strong support for the initiative, calling it “a no-brainer.” He stated, “For years, the planning system has blocked new homes in exactly the places people most want to live. Building in well-connected areas means shorter commutes, stronger city and town centres, and more young people finally able to afford a home.”
Conversely, opposition voices, such as Shadow Housing Minister David Simmonds, criticized the approach. He argued that the government should collaborate with local communities to ensure developments meet their needs, rather than imposing top-down policies. Simmonds remarked, “It’s clear Britain needs more homes. But instead of trying to work with local communities to deliver homes people actually want, Labour are trying to railroad through unpopular developments.”
As the government moves forward with these changes, the effectiveness and community response to the “default yes” policy will be closely monitored, particularly as the Labour Party seeks to fulfill its housing commitments amid growing scrutiny.
