Comment: The Government’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes and the NPPF update

“I welcome the Government’s commitment to address the housing crisis, and it is imperative that their commitments to ensure that housing growth doesn’t come at the expense of nature or the environment are delivered.

“As our Committee heard last month, the NPPF has been blindsided by the climate crisis. There needs to be a stronger presumption against building on land at major flood risk. Properties must be built to a high standard, ensuring that they do not leak heat into our atmosphere and that they prioritise low carbon materials and the use of renewable energy.

“I welcome the improved environmental safeguards since the original document, but will continue to urge the utmost caution for concreting over any areas which provide valuable ecosystem services, whether they are designated as brownfield sites or grey belt land. I welcome the Minister’s assurances that the Government is looking at how best to utilise Biodiversity Net Gain on large and small sites around the country.

“We will use our current review into Planning Policy and housebuilding targets to learn more about any changes the Government is considering regarding Biodiversity Net Gain, species protection and ensure that the new housing is powered by renewable energy and able to support the Government’s net zero ambitions. Our Committee looks forward to hearing how the Government plans to balance environmental sustainability with housing growth as we continue our inquiry into the New Year.”

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