In her first major address as Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP outlined her party’s vision for revitalising the UK’s economy. Speaking at the Treasury on Monday 8th July, Reeves emphasised that "sustained economic growth is the only route" to fortifying the country’s economic foundations.
Positioning herself as a “pro-growth Chancellor” Reeves detailed the government's growth strategy, centred on three pillars: ‘Stability, Investment, and Reform’. She stressed that planning reform is crucial to this mission, reflecting Labour's core campaign message to “get Britain building again” during the general election. Key initiatives announced include:
Lifting the Ban on Onshore Windfarms: Onshore wind projects will now be part of the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP) regime, moving decision-making from local to national authorities.
Reforming the NPPF: A new growth-focused National Planning Policy Framework will be introduced, with consultations expected before the end of the month. This includes reinstating mandatory housing targets to meet their proposed pledge of 1.5 million homes across the country within five years.
Highlighting Investment Opportunities: Any investment opportunities with planning implications will be escalated to Angela Rayner and the Chancellor.
Launching a New Taskforce: A dedicated taskforce will address stalled housing sites, starting with locations like Worcester Parkway and Liverpool Central Docks.
Prioritising Energy Projects: The planning system will prioritise energy projects, expanding the spatial plan for energy to encompass other infrastructure sectors.
Establishing Growth Mission Boards: A Growth Mission Board and a Growth Delivery Unit based in the Treasury will focus on driving economic growth and prosperity.
Directives to Councils: Local councils will receive guidance on expectations, including complete coverage of Local Plans and Green Belt boundary reviews, prioritising brownfield and 'Grey Belt' areas following Labour’s Golden Rules.
Boosting Planning Capacity: 300 new planning officers will be hired to expedite processes.
Government Interventions: The government will intervene in planning decisions that offer regional and national benefits. DLUHC Secretary Angela Rayner has already recovered appeals for two data centres in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.
Fast-Tracking Infrastructure Projects: Transport Secretary Louise Haigh MP and Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband MP will prioritise decisions on delayed infrastructure projects.
Following her speech, Reeves was questioned whether Labour’s planning growth strategy represented a "declaration of war on NIMBYs?". She responded by saying that while local authorities will decide where housing is constructed, the development of housing itself is non-negotiable and that houses "have to be built".
It is particularly notable that Reeves, the Chancellor, made these planning and development announcements, instead of the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Angela Rayner. This decision underscores the high priority the government is placing on planning reform, infrastructure investment and housing.
However, despite the bold planning reform pledges, the challenge ahead lies in implementing these strategies. With a substantial parliamentary majority, the new government is well-positioned to overcome likely opposition to advance these reforms and ensure that the party’s agenda prevails at appeal. As promised by Matthew Pennycook, further information on the New Town Taskforce and strategic planning mechanisms are expected to follow in further announcements.
As we reflect on the comprehensive planning reforms championed by Rachel Reeves, it's clear that the future of the UK’s development landscape is poised for significant transformation. From lifting the ban on onshore wind farms to reforming the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) with ambitious housing targets, these initiatives underscore a bold vision for sustained economic growth and infrastructure enhancement.
At Bluestone Planning, we recognise the pivotal role these reforms will play in shaping development opportunities. If you currently possess land and are uncertain about how to proceed in light of these potential policy changes, we are here to help. Our consultancy offers thorough site reviews that align with the latest national and local policies, presenting both short-term and long-term strategies for your property. Moreover, we can provide expert guidance on how impending government policies may affect your land use plans.
Unlock the full potential of your property and navigate the complexities of planning regulations with confidence. Contact us at Bluestone Planning by calling +44 1235 766825 or emailing admin@bluestoneplanning.co.uk.
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