Government reforms threaten green spaces
Government planning proposals threaten our beautiful countryside
© National Trust
Latest update - 19 October
The official consultation has now closed, but we are still working hard, doing everything we can to make sure planning is for people. You can read our official consultation response here (opens as a PDF).
What happens now?
It’s still worth letting your MP know you are concerned about the planning reforms. While the Government is considering all the feedback, you can keep up the awareness that people really do care about what happens to England. And, we’re still collecting signatures on our petition, so we can let Government know that you are paying attention to what is going on as they review the draft National Planning Policy Framework.
The draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published by the Coalition Government in July, threatened to put short-term economic gain ahead of all other considerations, including the impact on local communities and local green spaces.
Our task now is to play a full part in the consultation process until we're satisfied that the final planning regulation reflects his assurances, providing a neutral framework which decision makers can use to achieve balance.
We support the simplification and streamlining of the planning system and agree that it needs to provide land for new housing, jobs and infrastructure as well as protecting the environment. We are also keen to see greater engagement by local people in the decisions that affect their future.
The present draft NPPF does not deliver these goals, and needs significant change to properly reflect the ambition of balance.
If you'd like to understand more about the changes we’d like to see made to the NPPF, download our manifesto (PDF/ 197KB).
Help us to send a message to Government that planning is for people not for profit.
Support growth – but not at all costs.
For decades England's planning system has protected much-loved places from harmful development – and steered development to the places where it’s needed.
Proposed reforms turn this on its head, using the planning system as a tool to promote economic growth ahead of everything else.
If you care about preserving the places important to you, make your voice heard before 17 October.
Got 2 minutes? - Read our FAQs and then add your name to the petition
Got 3 minutes? - Read more about the issue, then add your name to the petition and email your MP
Got 5 minutes or more? - Take a look at some of the more detailed arguments about the planning changes, and find out why we are so keen for people like you to have your say. Then add your name to the petition, write to your MP and make a poster to stick up/share.
Want to know more?