England’s most significant planning reform in more than a decade must be carefully implemented to ensure it benefits communities across the country, according to the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
The proposed overhaul – including revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the introduction of new Spatial Development Strategies (SDSs) – has been described as a pro-growth reset of the planning system.
The RTPI’s NPPF consultation response supports measures to boost sustainable development and strengthen strategic planning. However, the Institute is encouraging policymakers to ensure reforms are spread equally to all parts of England.
A key feature of the draft NPPF prioritises housebuilding close to well-connected rail stations, echoing the RTPI’s long-running call for sustainable development.
While the RTPI has broadly welcomed this approach to promote public transport use and reduce reliance on cars, it warns that eligibility is based on outdated commuter patterns and economic output data within travel-to-work areas.
The Institute warns that, without careful calibration, this could result in development being focused on already prosperous cities such as Oxford and Cambridge, while less connected or more rural areas may face greater challenges in meeting the criteria.
Robbie Calvert, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the RTPI, said: “We understand the Government’s rationale in terms of directing growth towards areas of high productivity, but we have to be careful we are not just rewarding successful places and have to make a considered effort to support economic prosperity in every part of our country.”
The introduction of Spatial Development Strategies represents a significant new subregional tier of planning, providing powers similar to those already in place in London. RTPI members have expressed broad support for this strengthened strategic approach, but have called for clearer guidance on how the strategies will be prepared and implemented.
Recent mapping published by the Government shows that some areas are further advanced in preparing for SDSs than others. The RTPI notes that providing greater clarity on transitional arrangements and expectations will help ensure all regions can make full use of the new powers available through the devolution agenda.
RTPI members have also highlighted the importance of certainty as the new policies are introduced. Clear transitional guidance will be essential to maintain confidence among councils, developers and investors, and to avoid delays in plan-making and project delivery.
Andrew Taylor, Chair of the RTPI’s English Policy Committee, said: “Whilst planning should encourage economic growth, it is also about ensuring that it brings a share of prosperity to all parts of our country, both rural and urban. If the Government wants to get this right, it will need to provide clearer guidance on how Spatial Development Strategies will be prepared”
The RTPI’s response to the NPPF consultation was informed by nine regional roundtables across England and discussions with its England Policy Committee. Consultations on the revised NPPF and the proposed geographies for Spatial Development Strategies are continuing.
