Radical or daft? What was Sir Keir thinking?

As we canter towards election day, I’m a tad intrigued by the claim being thrown around that both main parties ‘aren’t being radical enough’. And particularly Labour, who have come under fire from a number of quarters for ‘playing it too safe’.

If you watched Keir Starmer on Panorama last Friday, you’d have heard him say to Nick Robinson:

‘I’m prepared to make enemies of the economy.'

I’m not sure how radical you need to be, but Starmer’s reference to Labour’s intention to overhaul the planning system and potentially go to battle with communities to make sure planning is achieved, has to be up there with one of the statements of this election period.

Asked if he was trying to "wave the magic wand of growth", Starmer said "it's not a wand, it's a plan" and outlined how Labour was focused on how to get rid of blocks to business needs that were preventing economic growth.

The Labour leader gave the example of a wind turbine that could be built in two years but would instead be held up by the planning process for five years - suggesting he would be willing to override objections to new developments.

When Nick Robinson asked if he was prepared to make enemies in order to drive economic growth, Starmer replied: "Yes - we're going to have to be tough."

"We're going to have to change the way things are done."

Just a simple glance on X (Twitter) following Friday’s Panorama, gives you a glimpse of potentially what is to come if Labour are in power come July 5th.

Starmer is ‘bonkers, brave and out of touch’ with communities.’ Just some of the more repeatable comments from local community groups who are ferociously battling development and developers in their area. Safe to say it’s pitchforks at the ready from some quarters.

For what it’s worth. I agree with Starmer. Okay, I admit that he may have wanted to word his response to Nick Robinson differently– but it’s no secret that the UK continues to lag behind when it comes to delivering new infrastructure – from housing to energy and transport and new settlements.

But – and it’s a big but – our experience of working with communities and developers to ‘get things done’ and be successful with planning suggests it doesn’t need to be a battle.

When it comes to planning applications, working with communities rather than against them can lead to more successful outcomes and long-term benefits for all parties involved. Collaboration with the community fosters a sense of shared responsibility, transparency, and inclusivity that are crucial for achieving positive results in the planning process.

One key reason why working with communities is beneficial is that it allows for a better understanding of local needs, concerns, and aspirations. By actively involving community members in the planning application stages, developers and decision-makers can gain valuable insights into what matters most to the residents and tailor their proposals accordingly. This community input can lead to more innovative and sustainable solutions that are more likely to be accepted and supported by the local population.

Moreover, working collaboratively with communities can help build trust and credibility. When stakeholders feel that their voices are being heard and their opinions valued, they are more likely to engage constructively in the planning process and support the final decisions. This trust-building process can also help prevent conflicts and legal challenges down the line, saving time and resources for all parties involved.

Another advantage of working with communities is that it can result in better-designed and more inclusive developments. By incorporating diverse perspectives and local knowledge into the planning process, developers can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, accessible, and culturally relevant. This approach can enhance the overall quality of life for residents and contribute to a sense of belonging and pride in the community.

Collaborating with communities at the planning application stages is a win-win strategy that can lead to more successful outcomes, greater public support, and sustainable development. By working together, stakeholders can create shared visions, address concerns proactively, and ultimately build stronger, more resilient communities for the future.

Now that’s a battle worth fighting for.