Responding to the publication of the National Planning Policy Framework, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the BCC, said: 

“This framework has the potential to unlock the planning system in England and boost economic growth, but the proof of success will inevitably be judged in its delivery and outcomes.  

“Whilst it is welcome to see plans for more housing where it is needed, it must not come at the expense of land for business use. This is sorely needed to release firms’ pent-up ambitions to expand. 

“The Government’s clear intention to speed up the planning system for large scale infrastructure can feed business confidence, if it can be delivered. 

“Another major barrier to growth is the shortage of planning officers in local authorities. It’s crucial that we train and upskill more planners to work in our local economies across the UK.”