A Positive Step Forward...

Elivia’s CEO Chris Chiles responds to new planning legislation

The Labour Government’s recent updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), as part of their Plan for Change, provide a much-needed boost to the residential development sector. But to deliver 1.5 million homes by the next parliament and achieve long-term certainty for the sector, there are still significant challenges that industry and government must tackle together.

At Elivia Homes, we welcome the recent NPPF reforms as an important step forward in creating a more positive environment for growth and helping to break down some of the significant barriers to addressing the UK housing crisis. As a business with ambitious expansion plans, fuelled by a significant land pipeline of high quality, sustainable and energy efficient homes, these changes will enable us to unlock more sites and accelerate much-needed housing delivery across the South East.

Empowering Local Authorities

For the Government’s new plans to have any real impact, there needs to be significant investment in local planning authorities who are woefully under-funded and under-resourced. Councils have a crucial role to play in delivering on housing target commitments, with the timely creation of local plans which are critical to providing the high-quality homes that this country desperately needs.

More clarity for developers on where they can build and a shorter timeframe on planning decisions is essential if we are to reduce the current cost and time burden we face in navigating the planning system.

Unlocking Land

A major change within the new framework is the introduction of ‘grey belt’ classification and a proposed review of greenbelt boundaries. At Elivia, we would urge the government to carefully assess the viability of developments under the new ‘Golden Rules’ for greenbelt land. While infrastructure investment is essential, policies must not impose burdens that could stifle the provision of much-needed family homes in marginal locations.

Raising the Bar on Standards

Sustainability lies at the heart of the NPPF, and we’re pleased to see updated guidance prioritising high-quality design and environmental stewardship. The refreshed National Design Guide and National Model Design Code will help ensure new homes meet evolving consumer expectations, creating more desirable communities. However, challenges around nutrient neutrality requirements on greenfield sites must be addressed to avoid unnecessary delays in housing delivery.

Driving Growth through Collaboration

For Elivia Homes, the government’s vision aligns closely with our own growth plans and the unlocking of a 6,000-home landbank across the South East. But beyond numbers, our focus remains on creating sustainable, well-designed homes that address local needs.

The updated NPPF provides a framework for progress, but the real test will be in its implementation. The Prime Minister says the recent overhaul demonstrates a commitment to ‘put builders not blockers first’. The next steps from his government will be critical to achieving housing targets and restoring industry confidence in the planning system.

At Elivia, we stand ready to work with the government, councils, and communities to deliver the homes this country desperately needs.

Together, we can turn ambition into action.