Planning issues threaten exodus

by Kathy Watson



Government ministers are holding talks next Monday (12 October) with developers and planners in response to widespread concerns that the planning system is failing.

The British Property Federation has already warned the Government that its members may pursue schemes abroad if things don't improve. "The property industry in this country is one of the most highly taxed anywhere," said BPF director general William McKee. "If they make it too difficult for us then we will either not invest at all or put that investment abroad."

Others who have complained about the slowness of the planning system, planning gain and impact tax demands include the HouseBuilders Federation and the British Retail Consortium. Local authority planners are also known to be unhappy about the current regime and many say they would welcome clarification.

Since the Government was elected there have been 20 consultative documents and ministerial statements on land-use planning issued by the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

A raft of planning policy guidance notes are currently under review and a new report is due which will flesh out the Government's Planning for the Communities of the Future proposals announced in February.