Press release
Housing: Govt planning changes slammed
6 September 2012
Responding to Government proposals announced today to boost house-building, Friends of the Earth's Head of Campaigns, Andrew Pendleton said:
"Local people and the environment will be forced to pay the price for these desperate planning reforms, which are being introduced to try and mask the Government's failure to dig us out of the economic slump.
"These changes attack the core of a fair and democratic planning system.
"David Cameron promised to champion localism, but these proposals will allow developers to bypass councils, limit the ability of local people to have their say on developments in their area and create a catalyst for disputes between neighbours.
"A strong planning system is needed to ensure top-quality homes, built to the highest environmental standards are located in the right places.
"We also need to tackle the appalling shortage of affordable homes - Government financial carrots should be used to encourage homes we can be proud of and provide for those most in need."
Friends of the Earth is calling for more affordable housing to be built, but new developments must meet three key tests:
• AFFORDABILITY: any new house-building programme must aim to provide homes for those most in need - and not just benefit the profits of developers.
• FUTURE-PROOFING: new homes must be built to the highest environmental standards. They should be super energy-efficient and fitted with renewable energy systems like solar panels to tackle soaring fuel bills and climate change. Their impact on scarce water resources must also considered.
• LOCATION: new homes must be situated in the right locations to minimise their impact on the environment. They should be sited close to existing amenities and transport links.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
1. Number Ten news release: Plans to boost UK housebuilding, jobs and the economy, here.
2. Councils' record planning permission creates 400,000 new homes - Local Government Association, here.
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Sep 2012
