Planning for the future was published by the MHCLG in March. It announces and outlines the key contents of a Planning White Paper which was to be published in spring this year (it may not now appear until Autumn). To read the full document click here 

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/872091/Planning_for_the_Future.pdf

The content has caused considerable concern given the indication that yet again the Government sees the problem of insufficient housing delivery as a failure of the planning system. Their key overriding concern would appear to be still housing volumes rather than as emphasised in Better Planning Better Transport Better Places the need to look at wider issues to ensure the delivery of sustainable development. The intention again is to overall the planning function. The RTPI is rightly concerned about the implications of the statement so has submitted a response Priorities for Planning Reform in England requesting the Government to review the scope of the White Paper including a wider range of objectives which include consideration of climate change, connectivity and accessibility, and health amongst other matters. They also stress the need for strategic integrated planning across wide geographic areas. Without the approach being advocated in the RTPI’s response the recommendations and conclusions of Better Planning Better Transport Better Places will not be delivered by the proposed White Paper, in fact the opposite! This is a matter of considerable concern to transport planning professionals”.