“The key change is the emphasis which the finalised NPPF places on local plans and local decision making,” Betts said, also praising the “restoration of a clear emphasis on brown-field development and ‘town centre first’, alongside recognition of the requirement for equivalent or improved replacement sports facilities when existing facilities are lost”.
Speaking in an interview with CSW held before the NPPF launch, Betts said that “local plans have to be at the heart of the planning system and that means you can involve local communities to make sure you get general support for what’s intended.”
He also spoke about the dangers of relaxing planning, warning that it can lead to “poor development” that deters more “serious developers”.
Read the full interview with Clive Betts