National Planning Policy Framework

Rebecca Pow Excerpts
Monday 5th March 2018

(6 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Sajid Javid Portrait Sajid Javid
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The hon. Gentleman will understand if I do not talk about any particular planning application that is going through the process, but I can give him an assurance on local people and communities having a say. The consultations that we have set out today strengthen that, and one of the best ways for a local community to play a part is also to adopt neighbourhood plans.

Rebecca Pow Portrait Rebecca Pow (Taunton Deane) (Con)
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May I say a special thank you to the Secretary of State for the mention of ancient woodland today and the protections given to it? It is a very precious habitat. I wholeheartedly support the ambition to deliver more homes. Does the Secretary of State agree that it is quite possible to have more houses but at the same time to look after the precious environment?

Sajid Javid Portrait Sajid Javid
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Yes, I very much agree with my hon. Friend. There is no need to trade-off between the two. We have shown through the consultations today that it is absolutely possible both to protect our environment and to deliver the homes that this country needs.