Second Reading of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill
Propertymark comments following the second reading of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill in the House of Lords
Nathan Emerson, CEO at Propertymark, comments:
“There is an ever-limited timeframe for the UK Government to deliver on their pledge to build 1.5 million new sustainable homes before 2029. It is positive to see peers challenge some of the problems that planning delays can pose. It is vital that the planning process is streamlined and that planning committees are adequately staffed to help speed up applications. It has been positive to hear discussion on aspects such as better digitising the planning process and making clearer provision for integrating data-led analysis within decision-making.
“It is also crucial that issues, such as ensuring a skilled workforce and a robust supply chain are fully in place for this proposed new legislation to be effective. It has also been encouraging to witness wide-ranging conversation regarding any environmental impacts that new housing developments can bring, especially concerning the future use of greenbelt spaces. Within proceedings, it has been reassuring to hear vast dialogue regarding background infrastructure and an ambition to ensure modern communities are built and not just new dwellings.
“In addition, it is right there was scrutiny within the second reading in the House of Lords regarding the nearly 1 million already granted planning applications which have not been implemented and the profound impact this is having on current housing supply. It was also constructive to see challenges from peers regarding the quality of some new housing and the fact there must be closer scrutiny overall on this subject moving forward.”
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