New planning rules will create a presumption in favour of housing within walking distance of well-connected train, tram and underground stations across England…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Thousands of homes are expected to be built around England’s public transport stations under planning changes announced by the government on Monday. The revised National Planning Policy Framework will introduce a default ‘yes’ for housing developments within reasonable walking distance of well-connected train, tram and underground stations. It will also set new minimum expectations for the amount of housing that should be delivered in these locations.
Ministers said the measures were intended to make better use of underdeveloped land around transport hubs while supporting local employment, investment and economic growth. The policy builds on the government’s commitment to give greater weight to the availability of public transport in planning decisions.
The changes are also designed to prevent additional local requirements being imposed where national standards already apply. The government said this would help suitable developments move more quickly through the planning system and progress from approved plans to construction.
The announcement comes as ministers say the government has passed the quarter-way point towards its target of building 1.5 million homes. The reforms form part of a wider effort to increase housing supply and make home ownership more accessible. Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner said: “A safe, secure home is the foundation of opportunity, but too many people are being priced out of the communities where they want to live and work.
“By unlocking thousands of homes around well-connected transport hubs, we’re helping people live closer to work, school and the services they rely on, while backing local businesses and driving growth in our communities. That’s how we’ll tackle the housing crisis and raise living standards for people in every corner of the country.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey said: “Making it easier for people to buy their own home is about more than a house. It is about security and families feeling they have a place they can truly call their own.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander linked the planning changes to the government’s integrated transport strategy. She said: “Earlier this year, we published Better Connected: A Strategy for Integrated Transport. The steps announced today act on a key commitment we made as part of that Strategy, to support densification of development around well-connected stations to create vibrant, sustainable and well-connected homes and places.
“The changes being announced today turn long-held ambitions into reality for our communities. Densification, combined with high-quality walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport, will support healthier lifestyles, improve access to jobs and services, and protect important public transport services.”
The wider planning package will also make it easier for councils to approve projects involving shops, leisure facilities, clean energy, food production and employment. It follows measures announced last week to support farmers and rural businesses by simplifying the development of reservoirs, greenhouses, polytunnels and farm shops.
Ministers also said pubs and music venues would receive greater protection against being lost without sufficient reason, reflecting their role in local communities, employment and high streets. Blanket consultation requirements will be reduced, meaning councils will no longer always need approval from public bodies when specialist advice is unnecessary. Sport England will continue to advise on significant proposals, while the Gardens Trust and Theatres Trust will still be notified about relevant applications.
