An ode to the nppf
- 1. The National Planning Framework receives some poetic justice. The National Planning Framework Effective planning strategy or coalition rhetoric gone beserk? From thousands of pages down to 52 Does it shed clarity on what planning is there to do? Or is muddled, confused and contradictory? Adodgy foundation from which our economy can renew Or planning’s final valedictory? At its heart lies the notion of development that is sustainable Set within emerging definitions and rhetoric that are rarely attainable Economic primacy rules the roost With the express aim of giving us all an economic boost Green belt and designations are given necessary protection Yet outdatedassumptions of their continued relevance cause frustration But what of this thing called localism and big society Neighbourhood plans, greenspace designations, community right to build, all challenge centralist mediocrity. Yet, despite the hype of communities shaping their own future liveability All MUST follow the local plan or rely on referendums with an outright majority So what of the academic assessment The key determinant is going to be sustainable development A legal nightmare of definition, interpretation and procrastination Will undoubtedly slow down planning decisions amidst increasing frustration The enemy of enterprise is short term fixes and uncertainty
- 2. A lawyer’s paradise that is destined to pit developer against community Yet, each policy area in isolation hassome positive trajectory Some fine words from the established planning vocabulary But beware of the inherent contradictions Sustainability is not something fuelled just by economic growth adulations Its about building peoples capacity, confidence and comprehensions Its not just blanket Protection of Green belt and existing designations Its about understanding connectivity and dependencies and opportunities Where environment and people are assets to be valued despite long term uncertainties Climate change requires more focus on adaptability Where policy dogma shifts to encompass increased flexibility We need to be bold and innovate As environment change recognises no authority boundaries or an expiry date We need much better data and understanding from which to plan Policy on presumption is outdated, dangerous and requires a ban And what of spatial planning; from global to Local scale Disconnects will lead undoubtedly to perverse actions that will ultimately fail We need a national map that highlights new national infrastructure avoiding the ad-hoc trap And so planning can assume its rightful place as a positive agent of change rather than its perception as bureaucratic crap.