We asked our planning director, Mel, for her insights on how Labour’s reform of planning policy might affect planning applications and development in the UK. 

A central element of Labour’s new planning policy is the reintroduction of mandatory housing targets, with a goal of building 1.5 million homes over the next five years. Local authorities will be held to their delivery objectives.

Mel explains, “If local planning authorities are missing their housing targets, the national planning framework will be taken into consideration for applications of single dwellings. This framework promotes and supports the development of under-utilised land and buildings, encouraging sustainable development. While each case is unique, councils missing their targets are more likely to see new dwellings approved.”

Brownfield land is a well-known term, but what about grey belt land? Grey belt, a term used in Labour’s manifesto, refers to poor quality land within the greenbelt. Homebuilding on grey belt land is a strategic move to meet housing targets while preserving essential green spaces.

Mel notes, “This will be particularly important for our clients in Epping, Chelmsford, Basildon, and parts of Uttlesford all of which have green belt designation. It is in these areas where planning reform and permission impacts will be significant. It does not mean that great swathes of green, rural land will be developed, but there are opportunities such as within existing yards in green belt that may benefit from being considered grey belt.”

The Labour government’s recruitment of 300 additional planning officers is poised to transform the planning permission landscape in the UK. With faster processing times, improved expertise, and a stronger focus on sustainability and community engagement, this initiative will streamline the planning process and support ambitious development targets. As these new officers come on board, developers, homeowners, and communities can expect a more efficient, responsive, and balanced planning system.

The new Labour government’s policies are set to bring substantial changes to the planning landscape in the UK. With mandatory housing targets, the prioritization of brownfield and grey belt land, and the addition of 300 planning officers, the planning process is expected to become more efficient and supportive of sustainable development. These reforms aim to address the housing crisis, support rural economies, and create a more balanced planning framework for the future.

Stay tuned for more updates as these changes unfold and reshape the planning environment in the UK.