The UK government has been urged to develop a national spatial framework to integrate housing ambitions with climate targets in England.
According to the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), such a framework could ensure better integration between government departments and agencies so there is "cohesive action" on housing and climate policies.
The RTPI argues that the UK government will fall short of its commitment to build 1.5 million homes during this parliament or cut emissions by 81% by 2033 without a coordinated land use strategy.
Unlike Scotland and Wales, which have national spatial plans in place, England has no overarching framework to coordinate land use, ensuring that new infrastructure, housing, and nature recovery plans work in tandem.
While the government has made strides with initiatives such as the Land Use Framework and the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP), the RTPI warns that a clear, coordinated mechanism is needed to link infrastructure projects, housing development, and energy needs across different sectors and regions.
Dr Ada Lee, Infrastructure and Climate Change Specialist at the RTPI, said: "Ambitious housing targets, new towns and infrastructure are set to reshape England’s landscape. With limited land available, this growth risks conflicting with climate goals, energy infrastructure needs, and efforts to protect the natural environment".
"The national spatial framework would be a vital tool for balancing this growth. By coordinating land use at a national level, we can ensure that our homes are built in the right places, powered by renewable energy, and integrated into a sustainable future".
Having a national spatial strategy could also:
