The proposed changes to the NPPF outlined by the new Labour government are broadly positive for housing development in England. The consultation states that the changes are designed as part of a wider push for sustained economic growth, and to reverse the alterations to the NPPF introduced in December 2023 which the current Government described as “disruptive and detrimental”.  

The adjustment to the standard method for calculating housing need is a positive step, largely allocating housing where affordability is most stretched, and need is therefore highest. Equally, reversing the changes to the operation of the Housing Delivery Test and 5 year housing land supply should open up more routes for sites to come through planning under the presumption in favour when local plans are not providing a sufficient supply.  

The key concerns are around implementation. How long will it take for the higher targets to become embedded within local plans, given the provisions made under the transitional arrangements? Is there sufficient financial capacity within the affordable housing sector to absorb the increased volumes Government hopes to secure through section 106? Will this approach provide sufficient return to landowners to act as an incentive to bring sites forward? There is still limited detail on the role of strategic regional planning authorities, or aligning housing delivery with functional economic areas. This will be crucial for realising the full potential of planning to drive economic growth.

Read the full pdf here

Read the full response from Savills to the NPPF Framework 2024 consultation