The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has called on the UK government to develop a National Spatial Framework (NSF) to integrate the nation’s housing ambitions with its climate targets.
Since taking office, the new UK government has committed to building 1.5 million homes in five years and cutting emissions by 81% by 2035. Without a coordinated land use strategy, the UK risks falling short of these ambitions.
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.
A National Spatial Framework could:
- Promote better integration between different government departments and agencies, ensuring cohesive action on housing and climate policies.
- Direct investment and streamline funding to key areas, ensuring that financial resources are aligned with national priorities.
- Provide a place-based perspective to inform both the National Industrial Strategy and Local Growth Plans.
- Foster coordination between local, regional, and national planning.
Dr Ada Lee, Policy Specialist (Infrastructure and Climate Change) 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."
