Government goes further and faster on planning reform in bid for growth
26 January 2025
The government has today announced a new wave of planning reforms designed to accelerate economic growth and create jobs.
The reforms, which will be implemented through a new Planning and Infrastructure Bill, will make it easier and faster to build new homes, businesses and infrastructure.
Key measures include:
- Introducing a new ‘growth zone’ designation, which will give local authorities the power to designate areas where planning rules will be relaxed to encourage development.
- Streamlining the planning process, by reducing the number of stages involved in obtaining planning permission and introducing a new online planning portal.
- Increasing the use of digital technology, to make the planning process more efficient and transparent.
- Investing in infrastructure, to support the delivery of new homes and businesses.
The government says that the reforms will help to deliver 300,000 new homes a year by the end of the decade, and create 500,000 new jobs.
Housing Secretary Michael Gove said:
“These reforms are a major step forward in our mission to level up the country and create a fairer, more prosperous society.
“By making it easier and faster to build new homes, businesses and infrastructure, we will help to create jobs, boost economic growth and improve people’s quality of life.”
The reforms have been welcomed by the construction industry, but environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential impact on green spaces and wildlife.
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is expected to be introduced to Parliament in the coming months.
Further information
- Government press release
- Planning and Infrastructure Bill
- Construction industry reaction
- Environmental groups’ concerns
Government goes further and faster on planning reform in bid for growth
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