Source · Select Committees · Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee
Recommendation 21
21
We welcome the additional funding for brownfield sites outlined in the Comprehensive Spending Review.
Recommendation
We welcome the additional funding for brownfield sites outlined in the Comprehensive Spending Review. In our engagement activities with the public it was clear there was support for prioritising brownfield locations and unhappiness at the perception this was not taking place. This in turn nurtured wider hostility to the 300,000-housing unit target. It is important that the public has confidence in the Government commitment to brownfield sites, but also understands why those sites alone are insufficient to deliver their target. Accordingly, the Government should publish the evidence showing why the level of house building that could be supported by brownfield sites alone are insufficient to delivering the required homes. The Government must also explain why the proportion of new residential address The future of the planning system in England 105 created on previously developed land has fallen in recent years. In addition, Local Plans should be able to prioritise the use of brownfield sites for development ahead of other sites. (Paragraph 144) Omissions
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
49. Alongside responding to the needs of communities for housing and other uses, Government policy that follows the Bill, along with policies and funds already in place, will allow authorities to prioritize re-using brownfield land as much as possible. As well as relieving pressure on the countryside, prioritizing brownfield development can support efforts to focus growth where there is existing infrastructure and employment, and help to reduce the need to travel by private vehicles, contributing to efforts to combat climate change. Regenerating brownfield sites is also critical to town centre regeneration, allowing eyesore and empty buildings to be replaced or upgraded, and support the creation of attractive, thriving urban centres. The proposed changes will enable local authorities to consider re-using all suitable brownfield land for development and encourage regeneration of our towns and cities.