For Immediate Release: ‘Ripping up the system won’t build the homes we need’ says TCPA
The government’s planning White Paper, published today, will completely rewrite the English planning system. But while the TCPA is clear that the existing system needs to change, we are deeply concerned that the proposals will undermine local democracy, marginalise local councils and fail to achieve the kind of high quality places that the government is committed to delivering. The TCPA has consistently set out a number of tests for the planning White Paper but none of these have been met. It’s particularly disappointing that the comprehensive programme of reform laid out by the Raynsford Review hasn’t been taken up by government.
The complex proposals in the White Paper will move permission to the plan making stage, reducing democratic oversight and streamlining public consultations. At the same time the paper is weak on the contribution the planning system must make to health and well-being . It also puts back the date for achieving zero carbon homes to beyond 2025. It seeks to abolish the much criticised duty to cooperate but offers no framework for strategic planning to replace it.
Fiona Howie, Chief Executive of the TCPA said:
‘The TCPA is obviously disappointed that our longstanding calls for a more people-centred system focused on health and well-being have not been taken up. As an organisation, we are determined to work with communities and government to ensure future reforms preserve a democratic system which works in the public interest.
‘Above all the TCPA is interested in outcomes for people and particularly how we can navigate the challenges of housing, health and climate change. We will be campaigning stronger than ever to ensure that we have the creative, open and progressive planning system this nation deserves’.
ENDS
About the TCPA:
The Town and Country Planning Association campaigns for the reform of the UK’s planning system to make it more responsive to people’s needs and aspirations and to promote sustainable development.
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