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New Accommodation close to development railway station It will get a “default yes” from planners as the government looks to meet its commitment to build 1.5 million homes.
housing secretary steve reid Preparation to announce changes in planning rules while providing convenience Construction On the ground, within 15 minutes’ walk of “well-connected” train and tram stations.
Importantly, these changes will also apply to designated green belt areas.
The amendment to the national planning policy framework is one of a number of measures Mr Reid is expected to announce on Tuesday.
Other proposals include allowing ministers to intervene if local councils intend to reject applications for large housing developments and removing certain organizations from the list of bodies required to consult applicants.
Mr Reid said: “I promised we would build back Britain and that is exactly what we are doing.
“But this requires the right homes in the right locations and close transport links are a key part of this.”
Labour’s manifesto promises to build 1.5 million homes by the next election to tackle the housing crisis.
But with the most recent data showing that 231,300 new homes were built between last year’s election and September this year, the government needs to pick up the pace to meet its target.
Mr Reid said his announcement on Tuesday included “strong powers” to deal with councils that “drag their feet” in approving new homes.
Under their proposals, local authorities who intend to refuse planning permission for a development of more than 150 homes would have to notify the Government, leaving ministers to make the final decision on whether the proposal is approved.
Organizations including Sport England, the Gardens Trust and the Theaters Trust could also be removed from the list of bodies that have to be consulted by law on planning applications.
Mr Reid said it would “streamline” the planning process and “reduce delays”.
Sam Richards, chief executive of pro-development campaign group Britain Remade, said the plan was a “default yes” to development on “disused” sites near train stations.
He said: “For years, the planning system has blocked new homes in places where people want to live. Building in well-connected areas means shorter commutes, stronger towns and city centres, and more young people ultimately being able to buy homes.”
Shadow housing minister David Simmonds said: “It’s clear Britain needs more homes. But instead of trying to work with local communities to give people the homes they really want, Labor are trying to rail through unpopular developments.
“As their 1.5 million homes target becomes another broken promise and house building collapses in cities like London, Labor has turned to another top-down policy that attacks local people. There’s too much to be said for their promise to empower communities.”