A clearer direction of travel for growth
The CBI has welcomed the government’s proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which set out a clearer shift towards a more growth-focused and delivery-driven planning system.
Following extensive engagement with members across sectors and regions, the CBI has submitted its consultation response to MHCLG. Overall, businesses are supportive of the direction of reform and the government’s recognition that planning must play a central role in unlocking investment, infrastructure and economic growth.
Several measures were particularly welcomed. The stronger weight given to commercial development in planning decisions reflects a longstanding CBI recommendation and signals a more balanced approach between economic growth and other policy objectives. Members also supported the expanded clarification of development considered ‘not inappropriate’ in the Green Belt, providing greater certainty for investors navigating complex planning constraints.
Reforms that strengthen support for energy and grid infrastructure, promote higher-density housing near transport hubs, and reinforce the presumption in favour of sustainable development were also viewed as important steps towards a more pro-growth framework.
Turning policy intent into delivery
While members back the overall direction of travel, a consistent theme in feedback was the need to translate policy intent into real-world delivery. Businesses continue to face delays and uncertainty arising from planning capacity constraints, inconsistent local decision-making, and viability pressures. Infrastructure bottlenecks and challenges around enforcement further compound these issues. Without practical improvements in how the system operates on the ground, changes to national policy alone will not unlock the level of growth the UK needs.
To address this, the CBI’s response includes a dedicated set of recommendations focused on delivery. These cover strengthening local authority capacity and capability, improving consistency and clarity in decision-making, ensuring robust and timely enforcement, and tackling wider structural pressures affecting development viability. A modern planning system must not only set the right direction at the national level but also provide predictability and confidence for businesses seeking to invest in communities across the UK.
Continuing engagement with the government
The CBI will continue to engage closely with officials in MHCLG, DBT and HM Treasury to ensure that planning reform supports investment, competitiveness and long-term economic growth.
Through the CBI Planning Policy Working Group, we will continue to bring together business insight from across sectors to support effective implementation and help ensure that reforms translate into tangible improvements on the ground. Contact Josh Male , CBI Senior Policy Adviser, for more information.
