New Planning Rules to Allow More Homes Near Train Stations

Thousands of new homes could be built near well-connected train, tram and underground stations under changes to England’s planning rules announced by the Government.

The revised National Planning Policy Framework introduces a default “yes” for housing within reasonable walking distance of well-connected stations, alongside minimum expectations for housing density. The Government says this will make better use of underdeveloped land, shorten journeys and help people live closer to jobs, schools and services.

The framework also gives stronger in-principal support to development within existing settlements. Other changes include greater protection for pubs, music venues and community facilities, a requirement for at least 40% of homes on major developments to be accessible, and measures intended to speed up planning decisions.

While station-led development could support housing growth in well-connected towns, many rural communities have limited public transport links or no railway station at all. It will therefore be important that the wider planning system also enables the smaller-scale affordable housing needed in villages and rural settlements, rather than concentrating new development and investment only in areas already benefiting from strong transport connections.