It was an absolute pleasure for Amy Paterson to attend The Planning Summit on Thursday with industry leaders.
With the Summit being held on the same day as the Labour manifesto being released (coincidence?!), there was of course fruitful discussion throughout the day about how a new administration could affect planning in every aspect - housing targets, the Green Belt, nutrient neutrality, net zero targets, and devolution and the comeback of strategic planning, amongst many other matters.
There is clearly and rightfully a lot of optimism within the industry about a shake up of the planning system under a new administration to ensure the delivery of much needed market and affordable housing across the country.
But the real question is HOW?
As Lord Banner KC quite rightly said, we need political leaders rather than followers. DLBP’s view on this matter is that leaders should not be afraid to “rock the boat” to intervene in local authority areas.
For example, to resolve the issue of a staggering 78% of authorities not having an up-to-date Local Plan by 2025 (source: Land, Planning and Development Federation) and if housing targets are to become mandatory again, there needs to be clear consequences - in the form of sanctions - for those who do not update their plans and/or meet or deliver their housing need.
Thanks to all the excellent speakers at the Planning Summit yesterday - Lord Banner KC, Samual Stafford, Steve Quartermain, Catriona Riddell, Brett Leahy, and Paul Brocklehurst to name just a few!
DLBP will be providing summaries and further insights of key party manifestos over the coming days.