The government has announced new funding to help speed up decisions around planning and improve the pace of delivering quality new homes.
Announced by Housing Minister Dominic Raab, the first phase of the Planning Delivery Fund stands at £15.8 million and aims to assist councils in application efficiency and implementation of new reforms. The fund will also go towards the training of planners to address the housing obstacles within their locality.
The government also states that the cash injection will help support local authorities working collaboratively on local plans, with an aim to engage residents on future development as well as outlining suitable areas where supply is in high demand.
The funds awarded to bidders will also provide local authorities with greater access to expertise on town planning and design, which the government hopes will boost the quality of the new builds.
Commenting on the launch of the fund was Housing and Planning Minister, Dominic Raab. He stated: “This cash boost ensures councils have the resources needed to make quicker decisions on planning applications, delivering quality housing at a faster rate.
“It’s part of our strategy to build the homes this country needs whilst also supporting residents to have their say on the kind of development that takes place in their area.”
