Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of how all new housing, including low cost housing, can have trees, space and gardens in its immediate environment; and what action they are taking in this regard.

The National Planning Policy Framework recognises the importance of access to high quality open spaces. It explains that local planning policies should be based on robust and up-to-date assessments of the needs for open space, sports and recreation facilities and opportunities for new provision.

The Framework also encourages local communities, through local and neighbourhood plans, to identify green areas of particular importance to them for special protection by designating them as Local Green Space.

The Framework is clear that local authorities should set out a strategic approach in their Local Plans, planning positively for the creation, protection, enhancement and management of networks of biodiversity and green infrastructure

In addition, when granting planning permission local planning authorities have a duty to ensure, whenever appropriate, that planning conditions are used to provide for tree preservation and planting.