Pickles decision is example of things to come

Following the news that Eric Pickles has approved 250 homes in Glenfield despite the opposition of residents and the local council, Simon Galton has raised his concerns that this could be an example of things to come under the NPPF.

Although local decisions can be overturned where a decision contradicts planning guidance, Simon is concerned that the current NPPF, which will replace current planning guidance, will make it easier for developers to get local decisions overturned:

• The NPPF is based on a 'presumption' towards approval with an ill defined safeguard of 'sustainable development.
• In a statement in March 2010, Greg Clark MP said he felt that in planning matters the presumption should be 'yes
• The impact locally could see an increase in appeals against local planning decisions, with the inevitable consequence that more houses get built despite reasonable objections

Simon said, "We know we need more houses, but my concern is that; if the NPPF is implemented as currently drafted it could lead to more situations like this. Local people cannot be expected to trust politicians to protect and support their communities unless they feel that the local decisions are final."