New planning rules aim to unlock thousands of homes near train stations

The government has announced new planning reforms aimed at making it easier to build homes near train stations.

Under the government’s new National Planning Policy Framework, there will be a default ‘yes’ for homes within a reasonable walking distance of well-connected stations, alongside new minimum expectations for the amount of housing that should be built in these areas.

However, an industry body has warned that the proposals must be “carefully scrutinised” to avoid creating isolated communities.

We will tackle the housing crisis

The government claims fast-tracking more homes will make better use of underdeveloped land around stations, while creating jobs, unlocking investment and helping to meet its target of building 1.5 million homes.

Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said: “A safe, secure home is the foundation of opportunity, but too many people are being priced out of the communities where they want to live and work.

“By unlocking thousands of homes around well-connected transport hubs, we’re helping people live closer to work, school and the services they rely on, while backing local businesses and driving growth in our communities.

“That’s how we’ll tackle the housing crisis and raise living standards for people in every corner of the country.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey MP said: “Making it easier for people to buy their own home is about more than a house. It is about security and families feeling they have a place they can truly call their own.

“We want to drive growth in every postcode and help more working people into home ownership. A secure home is the heart of all our lives, helping people put down roots, plan for the future and build a good life for themselves and their families. This is about creating opportunity, prosperity and stronger communities across the country.”

Industry reaction

However, Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, says the plans must be carefully scrutinised.

He said: “It’s positive news that the government’s National Planning Policy Framework will include provision to improve communities’ access to public transport.

“People consistently prioritise well-developed local infrastructure when deciding where to live. However, all proposals must be carefully scrutinised to ensure individual developments form part of a coherent wider picture, rather than creating small, isolated communities that may not work in harmony with one another.”