Government listened on planning and noise

The updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for England is now published. This is the framework to deliver the Government’s wish to fast-track quality homes in well-connected areas, make better use of underdeveloped land around stations while creating jobs, unlock investment, drive growth and connect communities. The NPPF impacts building new homes, seeks to protect pubs and live music venues, and should lead to the appropriate location of development.

The Institute of Acoustics (IOA) commented in detail on the draft framework, and is pleased to see Government listened. We welcome the incorporation of important considerations on noise into the new published NPPF, which recognises the importance of consistency with wider Government policy on noise:

• Explicit Agent of Change Rules: The Government has strengthened protections for existing noise-generating cultural and commercial venues and premises, making it clear that all lawfully consented activities must be addressed, even if they do not currently happen.
• Health Priority Alignment: Policies dealing with noise pollution remain linked to public health outcomes.
• NPSE Reliance: The Noise Policy Statement for England remains integrated into the NPPF, and broad alignment with its aims is retained.
• Tranquillity Guardrails: Maintaining the character of tranquil open spaces remains a core planning aim for new development.
• Information provision: assessments of pollution, including noise, are to be included on local authority validation lists, to provide a clear and consistent approach to planning applications.

Our Parliamentary Liaison Group continues to work with Government to make sure that all aspects of acoustics, noise and preserving tranquil spaces remain at the heart of the planning system. See our full comment on the consultation here.