Cable cautious welcome to Govt new planning reform – Mortgage Strategy
The government has announced a new streamlined planning process around house building in areas within walking distance of stations.
The aim is to encourage building in areas that minimise access to transport and make best use of underdeveloped land.
Responding to the proposals Sir Vince Cable, Chair of the independent Housing Policy and Delivery Oversight committee said:
” This is a desirable planning reform if it encourages higher density developments using existing infrastructure rather than sprawling sites which require multi-car households.
‘”Success will be in the detail and the practical application of what is proposed. Although such developments will assume a default “yes”, there will still be scope for objections and delay, all things that are problematic for builders.”
Sir Vince said the lesson of the Beam Park development in Dagenham should be highlighted as a clear example of the obstacles sensible developments face.
“A new rail station between Dagenham Dock and Rainham was first suggested in 2002 and is important to the wider use of land for housing. The new station has had many setbacks including from the Department of Transport in 2021 when it refused funding. Even now the go ahead remains contingent on funding as costs have increased.”
He added: “Let’s hope the Transport Secretary can unlock this important project and help provide more much needed housing in the area.”
