We were glad to join a round‑table with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to discuss the latest NPPF revisions – changes that will shape every planning decision made in England.
The draft includes several positive steps. It sets out clearer expectations for the evidence to justify listed building applications, supports supply of traditional building materials through mineral policy, and gives a welcome push toward re‑using existing buildings.
We’re fully behind the drive to cut carbon through better energy efficiency. But we’re far less convinced that the encouragement towards standard retrofitting solutions for traditionally-constructed buildings rests on solid science – and we’ve said so.
One major red flag is the revised definition of “sustainable development.” By tipping the scales towards economic growth and housing at the expense of environmental protection, it risks undermining long‑term stewardship. We’ve strongly opposed this shift
On the brighter side, Chapter 20 on the Historic Environment offers various improvements in emphasis and detail, including consideration for energy efficiency and reduction in carbon emissions as part of ‘public benefit’. Even so, we’ve put forward a range of targeted changes and additions to strengthen the chapter further.