Weekly planning news

Grey Belt Development On the Rise

The government’s revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is already leading to an increase in green belt development, as local authorities begin applying the new guidance. The Planning Officers Society has reported that some councils are now recommending approval for sites that meet the updated ‘golden rules,’ with Basildon Council recently greenlighting 250 homes on farmland within the Essex green belt.

The 'golden rules' originally set out strict conditions for green belt release, including a requirement that 50 percent of housing be affordable. However, concerns over viability led to a revision in the publishing of the final version in December, which instead mandates that affordable housing on green belt sites must exceed local requirements by 15 percentage points, capped at 50 percent. If no local target exists, the default remains at 50 percent.

This policy shift has been welcomed by many in the development sector, with Barratt Redrow confirming that previously shelved applications are now back on track. Matthew Tucker of Burges Salmon suggests the new approach will result in affordable housing delivery that is “more locally balanced and proportionate.” Others, such as CPRE’s Elizabeth Bundred Woodward, remain skeptical, warning that the changes could reduce affordable housing supply in high-value areas like the South East.

With developers now reassessing sites that were previously unviable, and local authorities required to apply the NPPF’s provisions immediately, the impact of these reforms on housing supply and green belt preservation will continue to unfold in the coming months.

Government Seeks Views on Planning Reform for Major Infrastructure Projects

The government has released a working paper outlining proposed reforms to streamline the consenting process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs). The paper is part of a wider effort to accelerate development and ensure the UK’s planning system supports critical infrastructure and clean energy goals.

Key proposals include:

• More frequent and flexible updates to National Policy Statements (NPSs).
• Simplifying consultation requirements while maintaining fairness.
• Strengthening guidance to clarify what is required at each stage.
• Supporting infrastructure delivery post-consent.
• Introducing greater flexibility where needed.

If implemented, these reforms would be legislated through the upcoming Planning and Infrastructure Bill. The government is seeking feedback from stakeholders, including local authorities, developers, and communities, to shape the next phase of policy development.

You can find out more on the government's website.¹

1. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/planning-reform-working-paper-streamlining-infrastructure-planning