localism in planning

The Localism Bill heralds a game change from the politics of the previous Government. A big shift in how this country runs and most importantly a re-distribution of power to those who should play an active part in running this country. Power has been handed back to local people. The reason - because local people know best!
Last week I met with Thanet’s civic societies. As President of the Kent Federation of Amenity Societies, I know how exciting this legislation will be for those who have a passion for community engagement in particular in designing the place in which we live. Yet these powers are also for each and every one of us.
Through neighbourhood plans, the flagship policy of the Localism Bill, everyone can have a say on how they want their local area to look and grow. No longer will people be powerless in planning decisions. You won’t have to stand by and watch your local pub close. You won’t have to accept large housing developments which aren’t in keeping with the design of existing homes. Instead, through a Neighbourhood Plan, communities will develop a strategy to shape the future of their local area. The vision can be as specific or simple as desired. It might specify a need for more family homes, it might protect residents’ favourite green spaces, or outline the need for new cycle paths.
In the past, the default setting has been to reject new developments. But if we have the power to dictate what a new housing development should look like perhaps we won’t always resent development? There are also some real incentives for allowing new homes in your area. For every house built, the Government will match the council tax raised by that home for the first 6 years! Thanks to my discussions with the Housing Minister, this bonus will also apply to empty properties brought back into use. This will hugely benefit parts of Thanet where – in some streets – 20% of homes are empty.
Those that are particularly interested in their community might come together to map their area and propose an initial plan. But to ensure that everyone is engaged in the decision making process - referenda will be put to the whole neighbourhood. Through stimulating the energy, enthusiasm, and community spirit of an entire neighbourhood, people will surely take more pride in their area. After all, there’s no place like home.