The Home Builders Federation says that many councils are failing to carry out their responsibilities under the new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and are lacking objectivity when it comes to housing needs.
The NPPF requires local authorities to assess their housing need objectively and then allocate sufficient land.
Housebuilders argue that the requirement for objective assessments is being 'distorted by subjective considerations' such as concern for the environment or heritage.
To make sure there is no back-sliding (as they see it) the HBF has beefed up its planning department, doubling personnel to enable it to represent the industry at every single local plan examination.
HBF has made representations at numerous selected local plans since the NPPF was introduced but has had to juggle resources. The experience has revealed the need for more resource to ensure local authorities conduct an objective assessment of their housing needs and to allow representation at all future plan examinations
HBF executive chairman Stewart Baseley said: “If the new planning system is to work as intended and deliver the homes the country needs it is vital that local authorities abide by the responsibilities it has given them.
“This new capacity will enable the industry to be represented at all future local plan inquiries, and ensure we are challenging local authorities that are not making adequate provision for their housing need. With power comes responsibility and we want to ensure responsibilities are being met.”
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