National Planning Policy Framework consultation
National CPRE has submitted an official response to the government’s autumn 2024 consultation on proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework. As a local group, we contributed our thoughts to the final submission. Whatever decisions are made are likely to have big implications for Cheshire’s countryside.
At CPRE, we agree that more housing is needed. However, it’s important that any changes to planning policy result in the right homes in the right places and work for both people and the environment.
Our response to the consultation covers a wide scope, and includes urging the government to:
- Develop a more transparent method of assessing genuine housing need.
- Require a mix of housing tenures (including social housing) in large developments and ensure that this mix reflects local need.
- Change the definition of ‘affordable’ in planning policy to reflect average local incomes.
- Prioritise previously-used land.
- Maintain strong protection for the Green Belt.
- Rethink the proposed reclassification of areas of Green Belt as ‘grey belt’ – this could lead to degradation and loss of land that is the countryside next door for millions.
- Balance economic, social and environmental sustainability, with a focus on housing sites that are close to transport and facilities and a greater focus on sustainable travel.
- Include rooftop solar as standard on both industrial and commercial buildings and new homes.
The consultation closed on 24th September. With housebuilding one of the government’s top priorities, we expect to see an announcement regarding the outcome and next steps soon.