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CIHT calls for stronger focus on sustainable transport in latest National Planning Policy Framework consultation response

26th Sept 2024

CIHT has submitted its response to the government’s consultation on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework and other changes to the planning system.

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CIHT has responded to the government’s consultation that is looking at proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and other changes to the planning system.

CIHT said:

As outlined in CIHT's Manifesto A Transport Network Fit for All Our Futures, there is a need to integrate land use and transport planning.

In our submission, we have called for planning rules to encourage place-based solutions that create attractive built environments and reduce the need to travel. Planning should support and promote the availability of local services and provide people with real choices and appropriate alternatives to private car use.

While we feel there are positive steps being taken in these proposed reforms, we are concerned that a stronger focus on sustainable transport is needed to ensure development meets the needs of people, not cars.

Key points highlighted in CIHT's response include:

Sustainability in development: Emphasise the need for quality, sustainable development over mere quantity. The NPPF should clearly define sustainable development and prioritise sustainable transport options to reduce car dependency.
Integration of transport and planning: Advocate for closer integration of transport and planning to ensure housing developments are accessible by sustainable transport modes like walking, cycling, and public transport, thus meeting the needs of people rather than cars.
Clarity on grey belt development: Call for stronger clarification and safeguards to ensure that grey belt developments are appropriately serviced by sustainable transport and not arbitrarily designated.
Vision-led planning: Support a shift from the outdated 'predict and provide' approach to a 'vision-led' approach in planning, ensuring developments are strategically planned with a focus on sustainable transport and economic growth.
Collaboration and cross-boundary planning: Stress the importance of effective cooperation among local authorities and stakeholders in cross-boundary and strategic planning matters to ensure consistent and sustainable development outcomes.

You can find the CIHT’s full consultation response here.

About the consultation

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government announced the consultation on 30 July 2024, after publishing its proposed reforms to the NPPF along with a series of wider policy proposals.

The original consultation can be found here