UKSIF response: Proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and other changes to the planning system

The planning system in the UK has long been a systemic barrier to greater levels of private sector investment in the wider economy, including crucially in low-carbon infrastructure and assets that can support growth opportunities across the country while also helping deliver progress against the UK’s climate change objectives.

For some time, many business organisations, investor-led groups, including UKSIF, and the wider private finance industry in the UK have consistently highlighted the relative weaknesses of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for England and its role in helping hold back private capital in the economy.

We therefore warmly welcome many of the proposals on reforms to the NPPF that are outlined in the consultation. We are broadly optimistic that many of the changes outlined in the consultation paper could reduce the current complexity of the planning regime in England, helping contribute towards greater delivery of the private sector investment needed to build critical new energy infrastructure. This includes renewable energy projects, social housing, and other vital infrastructure that can drive sustainable, long-term growth.

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