Date published: 12 March 2024
The consultation was launched by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on 13 February 2024.
It is the first in a series on specific policy elements following the roll out of the new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) at the end of 2023.
The consultation focuses on how local planning authorities can be encouraged to give ‘significant weight to benefits of delivering as many homes as possible’ when deciding on brownfield land applications.
As one of the largest providers, we were delighted to support and advise government on key areas that would help deliver more high-quality homes for customers who need them most.
We agreed with many of the proposals set out in the consultation, while making important suggestions on how national planning policy can best support brownfield development.
What did we suggest?
- That national government play a role in simplifying policy. They can ensure local government effectively works with Homes England and delivery partners to facilitate development by leaning on infrastructure investment to support large sites.
- There should be a presumption of consent for sites that involve a change of use for development where residential and commercial properties would be side by side.
- The Housing Delivery Test threshold should apply to all towns of a reasonable size. For example, those with a population of 10,000 people, rather than just authorities subject to the urban uplift.
Jonathan Layzell, Stonewater's Chief Growth and Development Officer, said: “Now more than ever it is vital we properly utilise brownfield sites to deliver more housing for those who need it most.
“We support the government’s proposals encouraging councils to prioritise brownfield developments and be more flexible in applying policies that present a barrier to housebuilding.
“It is pleasing to see the government address key areas of concern that will help providers and organisations deliver their ambitious plans while preserving untouched areas.
“But we also urge the government to consider suggestions we believe will better support housing associations moving forward.
“These include the government playing a role in simplifying policy, giving a presumption of consent for sites that involve a change of use for development and applying the Housing Delivery Test threshold to all towns of a reasonable size.”