Planning Reform

Terry Jermy Excerpts

Tuesday 16th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Matthew Pennycook]

I have never pitted, and I will not pit, development against the environment. This Government have sought a win-win for both, which is precisely what part 3 of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill does. The hon. Member is wrong to suggest that all this Government are doing is planning reform. Planning reform is a necessary but not sufficient measure, and we are undertaking plenty of others, including £39 billion for the new social and affordable housing programme.

[Terry Jermy (South West Norfolk) (Lab)]

I particularly welcome the comments about social and affordable homes in rural communities, and the commitments around swift bricks and chalk streams. In many areas, including in my county of Norfolk, the environment so often is the economy, whether that is through farming or tourism. Does the Minister recognise that one of the barriers to growth in many rural areas is capacity in district council planning authorities and the recruitment crisis? Will there be any specific measures on improvements to planning in rural areas?

[Matthew Pennycook]

I would say two things in response to that question. The Government have already allocated significant funding for planning capacity and capability in local departments. The Chancellor in the recent Budget allocated another £48 million. We are making £8 million of that available today to support local authorities with development management. In general, this framework will give a major boost to rural economies. We are making it very clear that development that supports farm modernisation and food production, and that allows rural businesses to grow, should be supported.