The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has released a statement calling on the government to swiftly reform planning
The BCC have given a submission to a consultation on proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and given their opinion on planning reform.
Within the submission, the BCC urges the government to “move at pace” to avoid “creating uncertainty and intertia in the system.”
Planning reform must be enacted swiftly
The BCC leads 52 Chambers of Commerce, and represents thousands of firms. It provides a unified voice for these firms in order to speak in their best interests.
Their consultation submission also states that there is a need to:
- Boost skills and experience in local planning authorities to deliver the Government’s ambitious plans.
- Plan better for business to avoid unintended consequences.
- Further guidance is needed on how local authorities will be required to address the need for employment land.
- Ensure appropriate use of ‘grey belt’ land.
- Businesses tell us they are prepared to pay a reasonable increase in planning fees if this leads to improvements in the service they receive.
- Ring fence planning fees to increase resources and improve quality of service.
Construction industry is in a delicate state
Jonny Haseldine, policy manager at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Getting a planning system that works for business is crucial to driving investment and economic growth.
“We welcome the proposed NPPF changes, and ministers should move quickly to implement them.
“Plans for more housing are welcome and will help employers access skilled staff in local communities. However, that must not come at the expense of land for business use. We need clarity on how local authorities will be required to assess the need for employment land, so business can invest.
“The shortage of planning officers is also severely hampering economic growth. We welcome the Government’s commitment to recruit 300 more planners. The BCC is also working with the private sector on a scheme to train and upskill planners.
“Overall, the new framework has the potential to unlock the planning system for businesses and boost economic growth, but time is of the essence.”
