KCC Cllr Roger Gough calls for greater clarity
The new government’s plans to accelerate housebuilding is being questioned by the leader of the county’s largest local authority.
The King’s Speech last Wednesday set out Sir Keir Starmer’s commitment to building 1.5 million homes and shaking-up planning rules over the course of the parliament.
But Kent County Council (KCC) leader Cllr Roger Gough (Lab) called into question the detail of the plans, particularly around the provision of infrastructure.
At full council at County Hall, Maidstone, he told members: “There are areas that do give cause for concern and that relates to housebuilding and the approach to that – what that will mean to the quality of life and things that make Kent special.
“That is something we will challenge but also what goes with it in terms of infrastructure.
“If we are to see any increases in housebuilding, and Kent has had a lot over recent years, then what happens in terms of infrastructure and how this council responds in being able to make sure what our residents’ needs are met.”
Cllr Gough said so far the government has been “silent” in addressing those issues.
Under the previous Conservative government, tens of thousands of new homes were imposed on Kent through compulsory targets on councils.
Labour has unveiled legislation to “get Britain building” in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, one of 40 pieces of legislation proposed in the King’s Speech.
This will also reform the planning system with the aim of relaxing some rules and finding suitable “grey field” sites to build on.
His Majesty said: “My ministers will get Britain building, including through planning reform, as they seek to accelerate the delivery of high-quality infrastructure and housing.”
Sir Keir pledged: “We will reform the planning rules to build the homes and infrastructure the country desperately needs.”
Councils, many of whom are teetering on the brink of bankruptcy after years of squeezed budgets set against soaring costs, have been seeking clarity on future funding models so they can plan more strategically.
A spokesman for the Local Government Association said: “The legislative agenda …includes some encouraging signs the new Government recognises that, with the right powers and flexibilities, councils are critical to help it deliver its missions.
“For councils to be able to deliver, it is also crucial they have adequate long-term funding and more financial certainty through multi-year settlements.”
Source: Kent County Council
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