Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee

Recommendation 43

43 Deferred Paragraph: 218

We recommend that circular economy statements including pre-demolition audits should be a requirement of planning...

Recommendation
We recommend that circular economy statements including pre-demolition audits should be a requirement of planning applications which entail demolition of properties, as is already the case for certain applications which London boroughs are required to refer to the Mayor of London for consideration. The circular economy statement must explain why retrofit to match existing or new uses is not possible if demolition is proposed and be accompanied by a whole life carbon assessments of both new build and retrofit. This requirement should be introduced as soon as is practicable and not later than any package of reforms to the planning system which the Secretary of State for Levelling up, Housing and Communities is expected to introduce before the end of the current Parliament.
Government Response Summary
The government will consider the role of circular economy principles in national planning policy as part of a review of the National Planning Policy Framework.
Paragraph Reference: 218
Government Response Deferred
HM Government Deferred
principles into planning decision-making. The NPPF is clear that in supporting the transition to a low carbon future, the planning system should help to minimise vulnerability and improve resilience and encourage the reuse of existing resources, including the conversion of existing buildings where appropriate. As set out in the Government’s Net Zero Strategy, we intend to review the National Planning Policy Framework to make sure it contributes to climate change mitigation and adaptation as fully as possible. We will consider the role of circular economy principles in national planning policy as part of that review.