Government makes announcement on National Planning Policy Framework and planning reforms

Today the government has published its latest phase of planning reforms, with an update to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). These latest changes reflect wider planning reforms announced this year, such as the default ‘yes’ to developments around train stations. It also includes further support for SME builders, a focus on rural and accessible homes, and welcome engagement to resolve issues within the Section 106 process.

CIH will review these latest changes and engage with members to inform our response to the consultation, due by 10 March.

If you would like to feed into our response, please email policyandpractice@cih.org with the title ‘NPPF changes’.

Commenting on the announcement, Megan Hinch, policy manager for supply and planning, said:

“CIH welcomes the reforms to the planning system announced today. The new national mandatory minimum target of at least 40 per cent accessible homes is a great improvement on existing requirements and will help meet significant need both now and in the future.

We are also pleased to see the continued measures to boost planning capacity through support for SME builders and the emphasis on strong infrastructure links for new developments.

We particularly support the commitments to increase social and affordable housing in rural communities and are encouraged that the government is committed to working to improve the s106 process to boost the number of social and affordable homes.

We look forward to working with government to keep going further to support building homes that are affordable, well designed, sustainable and accessible for all, for example by mandating M(4)2 accessibility standards for all new homes.”