WIREDGOV

Cllr Peter Box, Planning spokesman at the Local Government Association, responded to the Neighbourhood Planning and Infrastructure Bill announced in the Queen's Speech

"The planning system is not a barrier to housebuilding. Councils approve almost nine out of 10 planning applications and the number of homes being granted planning permission by local authorities during 2015 was 253,000, the highest level since 2007. We support the intention to improve the process for reviewing and updating neighbourhood plans but are clear that any additional requirements on councils should be fully funded.

"There is little evidence to suggest development is being delayed by planning conditions. Planning conditions provide a vital role, enabling planning permissions to go ahead which would otherwise be refused or delayed while the details are worked out. They can also save developers time and money as they do not need to invest in detailed submissions until the principle of the development is granted.

"We support measures to free up new land for homes. Reforms to Compulsory Purchase Orders could pave the way for councils to capture the value from increased land prices to invest in the vital infrastructure that boosts housebuilding and creates places that people want to live.

"The creation of a National Infrastructure Commission also announced today has the potential to ensure government decisions and investment will receive greater local consensus than there has been to date. Early and effective engagement with councils will be central to the NIC being able to fulfil this potential."