Concerns Over Planning Shake-Up

A shake-up of the planning system across the country could see Harborough District Council ordered to build over 1,200 new homes a year – more than twice the current number.

Bosses have raised concerns about the idea with the government, which is currently consulting on the proposals, which form part of the ‘Planning for the Future’ initiative.

It favours building more in rural areas and would see housing numbers dictated by Central Government, instead of being agreed on a regional basis.

The Harborough District currently needs to build an average of 592 new homes a year.

Council Leader Phil King told Hfm he is concerned:

How the new system would alter new homes numbers in the District

The Council is also concerned that the proposed new system would automatically grant outline planning permission in so-called ‘growth areas,’ without the need for a separate planning application to be considered.