Planning must be central to new Government’s place-based growth agenda

The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has called for planning to remain at the heart of the Government’s approach to housing, devolution and place-based growth following Andy Burnham’s appointment as Prime Minister.

The change in leadership comes at an important point in the Government’s planning reform agenda. The return of strategic planning and changes to England’s National Planning Policy Framework are already under way, alongside wider ambitions to increase housing delivery and support growth across the country.

Rachel Fisher, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “Andy Burnham takes office at an important moment in the Government’s planning reform agenda, with the return to strategic planning and changes to England’s National Planning Policy Framework underway.

“The new Prime Minister has demonstrated a deep understanding of the role that planning can play in improving people’s lives and unlocking the potential of communities and regions.

“In his role as the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham demonstrated what can be achieved when local leadership, strategic planning and collaboration are brought together. As the new Government develops its approach, planners across the public and private sectors will be essential to turning national ambitions into locally responsive action and delivering lasting benefits in the public interest.

“The RTPI and our more than 27,000 members stand ready to work with the Prime Minister and his Government to help build stronger, fairer and more sustainable places across the country.”