19 Dec Draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
Phase 2 Planning are able to announce a real Christmas cracker from the Government with today’s publication of a re-written draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
The proposed reforms including standardised inputs into viability assessments reforms to site thresholds runs precisely to 11:45pm on the 10th March 2026
National Planning Policy Framework: proposed reforms and other changes to the planning system – GOV.UK
Other headlines of note include:
– There will be a default and permanent presumption in favour of sustainable
development in urban areas.
– There will be a default ‘yes’ for development near rail stations with the
NPPF containing appropriate densities relative to connectivity of particular
stations.
– There will be fewer information requirements for smaller application sites.
– Smaller scale developments can provide a cash in lieu contribution towards
affordable housing.
– There will be a BNG exemption on sites up to 0.2ha and further
consultation on expanding this or other exemptions on sites up to 2.5ha
(DEFRA likely to consult on this).
Keep tuned for further updates and the team here at Phase 2 Planning are happy to assist further with any ongoing queries and questions you may have on these important Government planning reforms.