17 May 2022
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Research
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Planning System Reforms
The UK government is undertaking comprehensive planning system reforms through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, with multiple bills including the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025 and Planning Application Fees Bill currently progressing. The reforms aim to streamline the planning process to accelerate housebuilding, particularly in London and other growth areas, but are raising concerns about the removal of statutory planning consultees (including Sport England) and protection of community assets like playing fields and Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The reforms are in active implementation with ongoing consultations on new towns and assessments of impacts on protected designations.