The TCPA has offered an initial response to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework and new draft National Model Design Code.
Fiona Howie, the TCPA’s Chief Executive, said:
The TCPA supports the drive to transform the quality of new homes and communities which the changes to the NPPF and the new national design code could deliver. There is a substantial amount of information across the three documents issued for consultation but our initial reflection is that in the final versions the Government should go much further to reflect the widespread concern over the climate crisis, particularly in relation to flood risk and net zero.
While we absolutely agree that the new design requirements are important, our understanding is that they will not apply to new homes created through most permitted development rights. And that the proposed changes to the NPPF will make it much harder for local authorities to protect communities from deregulation by serving article 4 directions. The Government commissioned research highlighted that the quality of homes produced through PDR is not good enough. And so the Government needs to clarify how its very welcome words about the importance of beauty and high quality places will be applied to all new development.
About the TCPA:
The Town and Country Planning Association works to challenge, inspire and support people to create healthy, sustainable and resilient places where everyone can thrive.
Note to editor:
For further information, or comment, please contact [email protected] or call +44 20 8132 5455
Image: “Eco-house buliding the house Fair 2003” by MN Pollution Control Agency is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0
