NPPF will see off NIMBY obstructors say Gladman28th March 2012

The new National Policy Planning Framework (NPPF) will vastly increase the number of new affordable family homes in England, by making it easier to build on greenfield sites on the edge of towns, according to Gladman Developments.

“The NPPF will marginalise the self-interested vociferous minority who for the past 15 years have played a significant role in depriving a generation of the ability to own a home they can afford,” said David Gladman, Director of Gladman Developments Ltd.

“For too long, preserving the view of a rich man over the fields behind his house has prevented a nurse from owning a decent place to live.

“This affordability issue and shortage predates the current temporary mortgage availability problems which the government is already taking decisive action to address.”

Cheshire-based Gladman, which is presently promoting some 30 sites with more than 10,000 housing plots, already has an 80% success rate in gaining planning permissions, by partnering with landowners, but believes this will increase under the new framework.

“With sustainable development once again enshrined at the heart of the planning system, many brownfield sites, which would previously have to be developed first, are now ruled out as being too remote, so many more greenfield sites adjacent to towns with housing shortages will receive planning permission,” said David Gladman.

“Not only will these new greenfield developments provide much needed new affordable family homes, but, as they, too, have to be sustainable, in many cases these developments will also have to contribute to the wider community by providing new facilities, such as schools, shops, leisure facilities, parks, or playing fields.

“Developing more homes will also help boost the local and national economy and regenerate communities, at a time when the country most needs it.

“With three million new homes required in the next 12 years, the introduction of the new NPPF is excellent news for everyone whose desire is to live in an affordable family home in their town.”