Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has announced a significant reform of the planning system in England which will see planning permission automatically granted for certain development on designated land.
Announcing the reform, Mr Jenrick took aim at the "outdated" planning system, criticising it for holding up development despite the fact that recent studies have shown that the opposite is true and that the lack of development is the decision of the developer once permission is granted rather than the planners refusing permission.
Under new rules, the land will be designated in one of three categories: growth, renewal or protection. Once designated, permission in principle will be automatically granted to certain developments in the hope that more homes, offices, shops, schools and hospitals can be built. It is believed that this reform is designed to help the economy during the current coronavirus pandemic and to help the Government's recently announced 'build, build, build' agenda.
However, questions have been raised about whether the lack of scrutiny by professional and trained planners will lead to inappropriate and poor quality development. There are also concerns about the level of environmental harm this reform may cause at a time when environmental protection and enhancement is of critical importance. Although Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the green belt will continue to be protected, there are several other issues to consider. It is also not clear as to how biodiversity net gain rules will work if the planning system is essentially bypassed.
The new plans will have a focus on quality and design, with a promise that eco-friendly homes will also be built. Mr Jenrick said "I am completely overhauling the system so we can build more good quality, attractive and affordable homes faster - and more young families can finally have the key to their own home." He also said, "Land designated for growth will empower development - new homes, hospitals, schools, shops and offices will be allowed automatically."
