The Environmental Industries Commission (EIC) has welcomed proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), describing them as a serious and pragmatic step forward for housing delivery and a growth-focused planning system.

ACE particularly welcomes proposals, including:

• Higher minimum densities around well-connected stations, including parts of the green belt, focusing development near jobs and transport rather than poorly connected low-density sprawl
• Larger extensions on existing plots, enabling gentle densification
• Fewer local add-ons to national design standards and removing unnecessary barriers to delivery

Ben Brittain, Director of Public Affairs at ACE Group - which comprises EIC and the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) - said: “Matthew Pennycook’s NPPF reforms are a welcome and practical shift. Prioritising development in well-connected locations and stripping out avoidable planning friction should now ensure we focus on addressing the emergency housing crisis.

“These reforms create a positive expectation that suitable sites for modern economy uses, such as gigafactories, data centres and laboratories are identified in local plans. That change is critical for investment, innovation and boosting growth, not just in London and South-east but across Britain.”