The IHBC has submitted its response to the consultation on government reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
… We believe that consideration of heritage buildings is an integral part of housebuilding…
The IHBC writes:
In its consultation response the Institute welcomed many of the proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and welcomed government’s ambition to enable the provision of more housing but warns that this cannot be achieved without an emphasis on placemaking and local distinctiveness to enable new development to be appropriate to the location, attractive and, therefore, worthy of gaining and sustaining public support. There are concerns also that pressure to meet housing targets could deflect focus from maintaining the highest quality of design and execution in new housing stock.
The IHBC urges the government consider heritage as an integral part of housing generation and writes:
‘We believe that consideration of heritage buildings is an integral part of housebuilding as the selection of sites in areas which need regeneration can create an affinity between vitality, recovery and housing need with heritage. It is really important that government consider the use/reuse of heritage buildings for residential purposes where buildings are suitable, are in the right place, and can provide a range of units to meet local needs. New build is not the only solution to providing new housing. Reuse of existing empty homes and vacant space above shops should be a priority. Local Authorities should be encouraged to use their powers on vacant and derelict buildings especially listed buildings and unlisted buildings in conservation areas. The NPPF should support action for reuse and regeneration of existing buildings rather than demolition for redevelopment.’
The IHBC warned against the government’s concept of the proposed Grey Belt. Mixing up of brownfield development and green belt review will create rather than reduce policy confusion.
IHBC writes: ‘We have grave concerns that the proposed grey belt which we believe to be unworkable and we believe it has potential to create poor and haphazardous planning through a local plan process. We also have concerns about the manner in which landscape quality is being raised and is blurring distinctions rather than informing good practice.’
It goes on to say ‘A new ‘belt’ cannot come from a site-by-site assessment of suitability for development within the Green Belt, against as yet undefined criteria. There needs to be a review of and an adjustment to the green belt reduction criteria and consideration should be first given as to whether or not green belt lands could be first improved for ecological benefits prior to considering whether they should be considered for housing use.’
IHBC noted that no changes are proposed to the Historic Environment Chapter and hopes that this section can be reviewed in the near future.
The IHBC’s Consultations Panel
The IHBC constantly monitors Government Departments and other national and regional organisations for relevant proposed changes to legislation, policy and guidance. The Consultations Panel formulates responses to these documents on behalf of the IHBC.
See here for this and other consultations and responses.
NB: The IHBC may not necessarily comment on all consultations listed, while we welcome suggestions for review, and opinions on responses from both members and non-members.
