DCLG to consult on "green planning rulebook"

The government has launched a consultation on three planning policy statements as part of a drive to give local authorities a “green planning rulebook”.

The overhaul – relating to climate change, the natural environment and coastal change – is intended to ensure sustainable developments are planned and built.

A proposed new climate change planning policy statement includes requirements to reduce the need for people to travel between where they live and where they work, encouraging the installation of electric car charging points, better public transport and improved walking and cycling links. Councils would also be required to plan for the provision of low carbon and renewable energy in their areas.

Under the final planning policy for managing coastal change, new planning powers will be given to coastal communities to help the local economy and tourist industry.

There will no longer be a blanket ban on temporary development that “has wider economic benefits, an acceptable coastal use and could be relocated when required”, the government said. However, all “inappropriate development” including housing will continue to be banned in areas subject to coastal erosion.

Changes to the natural environment planning policy would meanwhile provide updated guidance for councils on how to plan for and provide “green infrastructure” such as networks of parks, cycleways and rivers.

The changes to planning policies were accompanied by the unveiling of a grant of £10m for councils to boost their expertise as “green champions” and their ability to approve greener energy projects.

The government also announced that East Devon District Council and Fareham Borough Council had been added to the second wave of the eco-towns programme.

Housing and Planning Minister John Healey said: “Councils are already making great progress and already highlighting where they can apply tough green standards in new developments. This signals real and radical momentum to change and to re-think how we design our towns and homes for the future.

“The tougher, better guidelines for planning give councils a new blueprint, reflecting the latest targets and ensuring councils put combating climate change at the heart of future development – ultimately saving people money on their bills and reducing emissions.”