RICS gives strong support to Rayner’s radical planning reforms

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has given a warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner’s planning reforms.

This week Rayner triggered an eight week consultation period on the reintroduction of house building targets, selective Green Belt development, and a review of aspects of Right To Buy. Other reforms are likely after the summer.

In response Justin Young, chief executive of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, says: “Setting localised housing targets to ensure that what is needed is built in the right places and with the right infrastructure, and working with local authorities that know their areas better than anyone, will help secure the bold ambitions of Government as well as providing jobs and opportunities. 

“It is further good news that local plans will be reviewed, and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government will assist and step in where needed, as we have previously called for. Our professionals are at the heart of the built environment, covering planning, development, construction, and cost management, and are ready and equipped to help push these changes forward.
 
“We have been calling for a Green Belt review, and applaud the introduction of clear, golden rules for Grey Belt. The proposed system of brown, grey, then green, should protect community spaces and secure needed but not unnecessary development.

“Planning reforms are a pullable policy lever for boosting economic productivity, and legislation that increases housing delivery across tenures, including affordable housing, will move the dial for those in need. 

“We look forward to working with Government to secure the skills needed to make ambitions a reality, and await the long term housing strategy.”