The planning sector has been in a state of flux over recent times, with both the Localism Act and the recently published National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) heralding significant change to the process of plan making and implementation. But whilst there is a clear need to 'kick-start' the economy through development, what are the policy themes and principles which are driving this change?
Trying to make sense of the changes, Business West held a planning seminar where local business heard from Communities and Local Government Planning Directorate, Mide Beaumont, and local business leaders about the context of recent planning changes and the move towards Localism.
Speaking at the event, Robert Freshwater, Policy Manager at Business West said;
“There is positive intent in the government’s new planning framework and it is encouraging to hear about the opportunities for business to engage and get involved in the planning process. It is encouraging that Business has been acknowledged as a key stakeholder in our local communities..
“Over recent history planning has been subjected to frequent change, so the introduction of the recent reforms, has to some extent, led to further uncertainty from within the planning and construction sector. So it was particularly helpful to hear direct from Mide who was able to both reassure business and put the reforms in context.”
Ultimately the test of this new direction will be in whether it is able to deliver the communities and infrastructure areas so urgently needed.