Overview
“Today the Government has laid down a gauntlet for developers and local authorities alike. The new NPPF is much welcomed and provides much needed clarity and certainty, not only for housing but also in support of economic growth and the environment.
“The Government has made it clear that it will not hesitate to use its powers of intervention to ensure local plans are put in place, and where plans are not up to date the Government has strengthened the presumption in favour of sustainable development. There can be little doubt that the Government’s plans will be met by opposition, particularly amongst local authorities, but it’s becoming clear that Angela Rayner and Matthew Pennycook are not afraid of a fight.
“However, it is ultimately disappointing to see that the transition arrangements have soften enabling plans to have a further 2 months on top of the 1 month previously suggested. This will not support delivery and could see elongated battles drawn out with local authorities over old Plans that simply no longer fit the bill.”
Transition arrangements
“We should be concerned that a number of local plans have been brought forward at pace this year to avoid the need to align with the higher housing targets laid bare today. The softening of the transition arrangements, allowing for an extra two months, will not help this issue either and will enable more local authorities to pursue their plans based on the current Standard Method. “
Duty to Co-operate
“The legal Duty to Co-operate has not been effective and consequently there are housing needs that are not being met, particularly around our cities and towns, which have constrained administrative boundaries. There is some concern that there appears to be greater flexibility on the matters which require collaboration as these need only to “align as fully as possible” rather than be consistent.
“But overall, in the short term, the Government has strengthened the existing Duty to Co-operate, particularly in regard to cross boundary co-operation. The changes to Duty to Co-operate is a useful stopgap, but this issue will not be resolved until we see the Government deliver its forthcoming Devolution Bill, and Planning and Infrastructure Bill which will bring in universal coverage of strategic planning for functional economic areas within the next five years.”