27.03.12
Planning reforms implemented immediately
The Government’s planning reforms are set to be published today, and will come into immediate effect, ahead of the previous date in April. Although there will still be a presumption in favour of sustainable development, specific protections will be outlined for certain green areas.
Following months of opposition from environmental campaigners, the revised framework will include a definition of ‘sustainable development’ and councils will be encouraged to consider development on brownfield sites first.
National parks, areas of outstanding beauty and school football pitches will see specific protection from development.
The text of the National Planning Policy Framework is now expected to say that “existing open space, sports and recreational buildings and land, including playing fields, should not be built on unless the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision”.
In a move to further reduce the complexity and challenge of development, the framework which was originally reduced from over 1,000 pages to 52, will now be further condensed into 50 pages.
Campaigners have also called for more assurance that house building would be targeted at providing more affordable housing.
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