Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the consultation entitled Proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework and other changes to the planning system, published on 30 July 2024, what steps her Department is taking to balance requirements for new housing developments with the protection of heritage sites.

The government recognises the importance of our historic environment. We are committed to ensuring it continues to be appropriately protected and that the planning system does not place unnecessary burdens on the owners of listed buildings.

Officials in my department are currently analysing responses to the consultation on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework, as part of which we will consider any potential impacts for heritage assets and their owners.