By Nick Mann | 21 December 2011
The National Planning Policy Framework could succeed in slowing down the planning process, rather than speeding it up, MPs warned today.
In a report on the draft framework, which was published for consultation in July, the communities and local government select committee said that its ‘brevity and simplicity’ – while lauded by the government – did not necessarily equate to clarity.
It said there were ‘many examples of inconsistent drafting’ in the NPPF as it stands, which could lead to a ‘huge expansion’ in councils drawing up local plans to ‘plug the gap’ in planning policy and guidance.
And the MPs said that this lack of detail could lead to the NPPF having the reverse impact to that intended by the government, with planning decisions being taken under appeal rather than the localised decision-making advocated by ministers.
‘There is a danger that, far from speeding up the planning process, in the short term the NPPF will slow it down by introducing ambiguity where previously there was detailed guidance. “Planning by appeal” could be the outcome,’ they said.
The committee also called for the removal from the draft document of a ‘default yes’ in favour of development. This, as well as the presumption that all planning applications should be approved unless the adverse effects ‘significantly and demonstrably’ outweigh the benefits, presents barriers to truly sustainable development, the MPs said.
Committee chair Clive Betts said: ‘The way the framework is drafted currently gives the impression that greater emphasis should be given in planning decisions to economic growth. This undermines the equally important environmental and social elements of the planning system.
‘As currently drafted, the “default yes” to development also carries the risk of the planning system being used to implement unsustainable development.’
Decentralisation minister Greg Clark said he welcomed the committee’s ‘constructive recommendations’ for the framework.
‘The government will consider carefully each of the suggestions that have been made, along with all responses to the consultation.
‘We are determined that the National Planning Policy Framework will put power into the hands of local people, through a simpler, clearer system, which safeguards our natural and historic environment while allowing the jobs and homes to be created that our country needs.’
The Local Government Association said the report supported its view that councils should be responsible for balancing the economic, social and environmental benefits of new developments.
David Parsons, chair of the LGA’s environment and housing board, said: ‘The LGA also been clear that local people should be able to decide what developments they wish for through their Local Plans.
‘The report raised concerns that the proposed “presumption in favour of sustainable development” may undermine the importance of these. We support calls for clarity to ensure that Local Plans continue to determine what developments occur in neighbourhoods.’
