The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has welcomed the government’s plans to coordinate decisions on housing and infrastructure at a national level, as outlined in the ‘Plan for Change’.
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, as outlined by the Government today, 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.
Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “The message of the Prime Minister is accurate. Poor planning, which lacks both resources and an overarching, strategic approach, will hold England back from building a positive and sustainable future.
“The Government’s ‘Plan for Change,’ however, clearly outlines points made time and again by the RTPI: the need to plan more effectively by creating a system that not only meets housing target but builds connected, thriving communities. Only a plan-led approach can deliver this.
“The Plan for Change suggests that the government wants to strategically join up decisions on business growth, infrastructure and housing at the national level. This is something the RTPI has long called for. A National Spatial Framework would ensure that right new homes are built in the right locations, powered by renewable energy, and integrated into a sustainable future.”
The PM’s speech re-committing the Government to their target to homebuilding 1and the significant promises made on planning reform, is welcome news, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, commented: “The FMB fully supports the ambitions of the Government in delivering a major increase in the UK’s housebuilding rates. However, we have also been clear the goal of building 1.5 million homes over the next five years will simply not be viable without significant steps to tackle the ongoing construction skills crisis; diversify the housing market from a small number of volume housebuilders; and ensure substantial planning reforms are rolled out.
“The challenge the UK faces in tackling the housing crisis is immense, and it is particularly pleasing to hear the Prime Minister re-commit to housing targets, alongside pledging support for new major infrastructure projects.
“His message of support for planning reform will be welcomed by builders across the country. However, this must be delivered in a way which benefits and supports the entire construction industry, including SMEs, if they are going to deliver on their aims. Local builders stand ready to deliver growth and the FMB looks forward to seeing the plans laid out in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill in the coming months.”
