---

National Planning Policy Framework

We do expect to see more homes delivered, and one feature of the previous system was that, despite having national and regional targets, it bore no relation to what was being built on the ground. Our contention, which has been established through the consultation, is that if we work with the grain of people, if people have the types of homes that they want to see in their environment, and if we raise design standards so that people feel that they are a positive contribution to the built environment, we are likely to avoid the contention that has thwarted the delivery of homes. Such delivery is crucial to all our constituents: we cannot go on with a situation in which we fail to provide homes and employment spaces for them. The outcome of the consultation has proved satisfactory to many commentators. Almost everyone who commented did so favourably, and they might give the hon. Gentleman some confidence in the idea that the people who gave evidence to his inquiry feel positive about the results. It is fair to say that the outcome is going to be good for the economy. The CBI said that it"““gets the balance right between supporting jobs and growth, and serving the interests of the environment and society.””" The Institute of Directors said:"““It is great to see hundreds of…unnecessary rules being cut out of the planning system... Britain needs to get building again and these reforms allow that to happen””." That addresses the hon. Gentleman's point directly. The NPPF is good for anyone who needs a home. The National Housing Federation, which, as Members know, represents social housing providers, said:"““The NPPF will give England the simpler, speedier and more positive planning system it needs.””" The Home Builders Federation said:"““The new system strikes a sensible balance between economic growth, social need and environmental considerations.””" It also stated that it is"““a sound basis for a more pro-growth planning system””." The NPPF is good for the countryside and rural prosperity. The Country Land and Business Association said:"““The section on supporting a prosperous rural economy is excellent, laying the foundations for the growth of all types of business in rural areas.””" The framework is good for town centres. The British Retail Consortium said:"““The NPPF should do a lot to boost the country's high streets and encourage vibrant town centres.””" It goes on:"““These practical measures…should help bring a boost to local economies.””"