National Planning Policy Framework Proposed Health Inequality Duty
2026-06-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about health inequalities driven by social determinants such as access to green spaces, which are vital for physical and mental health.
What assessment has the government made of adding a health inequality duty to the national planning policy framework?
The Government recently consulted on a new national planning policy framework that includes proposals designed to promote healthy communities. Feedback is currently being analysed, and a response will be published in due course.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of adding a health inequality duty was not provided.
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlights the low amount of green space per person in her constituency, which is associated with lower life expectancy.
In my constituency of Worthing West, we have less than a snooker table's worth of green space per person. Could the Minister set out how the Department is working across Government to ensure that this essential health determinant is being secured and increased across all areas?
The new NPPF recognises the importance of safeguarding local green spaces and ensures that such spaces are excluded from grey-belt land definitions. These areas provide significant benefits for health and community assets.
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Assessment & feedback
Details on interdepartmental work to secure and increase green spaces were not provided.
Working With Partners
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about two planning decisions in his constituency that risk setting a precedent for large-scale industrial development in national landscapes.
May I urge the Minister to consider adding greater protections for our national landscapes? There have been two outrageous decisions by the planning inspector involving car parks and solar farms near Whitchurch and St Mary Bourne, respectively. Will he strengthen those protections?
The Minister is willing to discuss the two cases in question with the right hon. Gentleman and consider how decisions interact with NPPF proposals.
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Assessment & feedback
Commitments on strengthening protections for national landscapes were not provided.
To Be Discussed Further
Response accuracy