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Planning Reform: Next Phase
16 December 2025
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
At a Glance
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.
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