The British Property Federation (BPF) is calling on the next government to give the UK’s planning system a much-needed overhaul. They’re saying: “Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater!” – no radical rewrites, just a few key changes that will get things moving again.
The BPF argues that the current system is holding back vital projects, especially those that need to work across multiple local areas. They say that it’s also failing to keep up with the need for new homes, shops, and factories that are needed to support growing communities and create new jobs.
What’s wrong with the planning system?
The BPF points out that:
- The system is too slow: It takes too long to get planning permission, which is putting off investors and delaying projects.
- It’s not clear what the rules are: The constant changes and consultations make it difficult for developers to know what to expect, leading to uncertainty and a lack of investment.
- It’s not well-funded: The system doesn’t have the resources it needs to function effectively, and this is holding back growth.
What’s the BPF’s solution?
The BPF suggests six key changes to the planning system:
- Focus on strategic planning: Create a ‘bigger picture’ approach to planning that considers the needs of entire regions, not just individual towns and villages.
- Stabilise the system: Give the local planning system time to settle in, so that everyone knows the rules and can plan accordingly.
- Invest in the system: Put more money into the planning system so that it has the resources it needs to work properly.
- Scrap the flawed Infrastructure Levy: This is a complex tax on new developments, and the BPF believes it should be replaced with simpler and more effective systems.
- Have a serious conversation about the Green Belt: This is land that is protected from development, but the BPF says that we need to look at the quality of this land, not just its size, to make sure that the best land is being used for the most important projects.
- Plan for all types of housing: Make sure that local councils are planning for enough homes of all types, including rental properties, student housing, and homes for older people.
What does this mean for investors?
This is a major call to action for investors and developers. If the BPF’s proposals are adopted, we could see a more streamlined and efficient planning system that attracts more investment and helps to build the homes and infrastructure we need.
What’s next?
The BPF has presented its proposals to the government, and it remains to be seen whether they will be taken on board. But one thing is clear: the planning system is in need of an overhaul, and this is an opportunity to make some real changes that will benefit the whole country.
The BPF’s chair, Claire Dutch, has said: “Planning should be an enabler of growth and the ultimate objective has to be to get the UK building again. While some say we need a radical reform of the planning system, we believe that the objective is best achieved by improving the current system, rather than ripping it up and starting again.”
It’s a message that’s likely to resonate with property developers who are looking for a clearer, more predictable planning system that will allow them to build with confidence.