CLA responds to planning announcement

“The CLA welcomes today’s announcement about reforms to simplify the planning system. We've been asking for this for many years.

“At a time when many people are understandably considering leaving the city for a more rural life, we must ensure the rural economy is fit for purpose; an effective, efficient and proportionate planning system is a key component of delivering that.

“A simplified planning regime will facilitate the economic recovery we desperately need, delivering jobs, homes and much-improved environmental and natural capital resources.

“But we need further detail from Government, and a commitment to work with landowners and rural businesses to deliver a first-class planning regime that works for the rural economy in practise, not just in theory.”