Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development
The Government has this week published its draft National Planning and Policy Framework. The framework sets out guidance on key national objectives such as safeguarding the natural environment, combating climate change and supporting sustainable local growth. Local Authorities and communities will be able to produce their own plans reflecting the needs and priorities for their own areas.
One key aspect of the draft Framework is the presumption in favour of Sustainable Development.
The draft Framework requires councils to work closely with businesses and communities to plan positively for the needs of each area. Significantly, the Framework makes clear that where Development Plans are not in place or up-to-date, development should be allowed unless this would compromise the key principles for sustainability outlined in the Framework, including safeguarding the Green Belt and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The intention is to encourage plan-making by Councils, as well as providing enhanced certainty to developers about the types of application that are likely to be supported.
If you have a parcel of land or property that you wish to develop, contact Rob Duncan Planning Consultancy for independant professional advice on the way forward, as well as assistance at pre-application stage and the preparation of high quality Planning and Design and Access Statements.