The new NPPF: a catalyst for greener, healthier and well-connected neighbourhoods

The eight National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published recently, prompting conversations in the industry about the impact it could have on places and spaces.

Here, Stephen O’Malley, CEO and co-founder at Civic, shares his thoughts on the key takeaways:

“Done well, the default 'yes' for homes around transport hubs could liberate space and improve the overall experience of our towns and cities. 

“By bringing more people together around well-connected places, it can support more sociable, walkable neighbourhoods and create public spaces where people feel safe, connected and want to spend time. That's a very different outcome from places designed primarily around private vehicles, where the scale and layout can often feel less human.

“There is a really exciting opportunity here to look beyond planning policy and rethink how local infrastructure and public realm can support new communities and make everyday life better. More homes around transport can become the catalyst for greener streets, better walking and cycling connections, more useful public spaces and investment in the infrastructure that existing communities need too.

“As planning decisions become faster, bringing transport, infrastructure, environmental and place specialists around the table earlier gives developers and local authorities the opportunity to identify challenges sooner and, importantly, find better and more creative solutions together. Rather than resolving conflicts later, we can design more of the right outcomes into places from the outset.

“And greater density can itself create opportunities. Green infrastructure, sustainable drainage and climate adaptation can be planned alongside homes, transport and utilities as part of one integrated system. Trees can provide shade and character, sustainable drainage can manage water while creating greener streets, and well-designed public realm can support biodiversity, walking, social interaction and healthier everyday lives.

“If we get this right, homes around transport hubs can do much more than increase housing supply. They can help us create greener, healthier, better-connected and more resilient neighbourhoods, places where more people can live well while making our towns and cities better for everyone.”

Keen to chat through the opportunities this supports with our team? Contact Bex.Tinsley@team-civic.com to put you in touch.