House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Planning Reform: Next Phase
16 December 2025 · Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Proposed by Matthew Pennycook Lab Greenwich and Woolwich
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- Planning Reform: Next Phase announced to address the housing crisis in England.
- Revised National Planning Policy Framework will be put out for consultation.
- Funding and policy changes will support small and medium-sized housebuilders.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the ongoing housing crisis in England and outlines further planning reforms aimed at increasing housing supply and economic growth.
Action requested
The minister is announcing a revised National Planning Policy Framework for consultation, supporting small and medium-sized housebuilders through policy and regulatory changes, and providing additional funding to local authorities to enhance planning capacity and support new housing developments. The government will also launch an expression of interest for pattern books of standardised house designs.
Key facts
- England faces a severe housing crisis with over 1.3 million people on social housing waiting lists.
- The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent before the House rises on Thursday.
- A revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) will be published for consultation.
- New policies aim to boost housing supply by supporting SME housebuilders on sites up to 2.5 hectares.
- £8 million in funding is available for local planning authorities to accelerate major residential schemes.
- An additional £3 million goes to the Greater London Authority to support boroughs' planning departments.