Agenda item

The Chairman welcomed Sarah Fox, Head of Planning Policy from the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) who had attended to discuss proposals to take forward a number of measures set out in the government’s housing white paper to boost housing supply in England. These proposals were set out in the DCLG consultation ‘Planning for the right homes in the right places’ published on 14 September 2017.

Nick Porter, Senior Adviser, introduced the report and  provided a summary of the consultation proposals and set out potential issues for members to consider and discuss. He particularly emphasised the difficulties of a single national formula to understand local housing markets.

In the discussion which followed, these points were made; 

·         In response to a concern raised that the proposed methodology focused on a top down approach, Sarah emphasised that it was DCLG’s intention that Local Authorities be able to use a different methodology, should they have a clear reason to do so.

·         Concerns were raised as to the current proposals not taking into account the disparity between the housing markets in different local authorities.

·         Concerns were raised as to the great deal of uncertainty for local authorities following this announcement.

·         Members requested a map to give clarity as to how this is impacting different local authority areas across England.

The Chairman summarised the views and concerns of the Board as follows;

·         That it would be crucial for central government to take into account local areas infrastructure in greater depth going forwards.

·         That regarding viability, Councils need greater powers to ensure homes are built in appropriate time after permission is given.

·         That regarding the proposed methodology DCLG would need to place a greater emphasis on local factors.

·         That further engagement from Ministers would be of great value to local government.

·         That local authorities will need further information on the National Planning Policy Framework.

Decision

The Board considered and discussed the key proposals within the consultation and provided a steer on the LGA’s response.

Action

1.    Officers would pursue further information regarding the NPPF from DCLG.

2.    Officers to circulate a map from DCLG showing the impact on authorities in England to Board members.

3.    Officers to incorporate Members steer into the LGA’s response on the DCLG Consultation.