Success of new climate change planning policy dependent on both developers and local authorities, says CBI
January 2nd 2008 The CBI has welcomed publication of the new planning policy statement Planning and Climate Change.
Karen Dee, Head of Infrastructure, said: “Meeting the UK’s 2050 target to cut CO2 emissions in half depends on a planning framework which supports low carbon development, and if properly thought out, can be delivered without undermining the ability of business to compete and meet the needs of consumers.
“Developers will have to think imaginatively about how their carbon footprint can be effectively mitigated - however it is important local authorities support their efforts by having flexible local plan policies which encourage innovation.”
Commenting on so-called ‘Merton-rule’ policies, which require a percentage of a development’s energy to be sourced from a decentralised renewable source, Ms Dee continued: “There is a danger that over-prescriptive planning policies may forestall development. Planners must take in to account hurdles which applicants may face.”
There is also a need for local authorities to stress-test their own policies, the CBI said, to ensure the drive for higher environmental standards is rigorously worked through for both its economic and environmental sustainability.
This means local authorities should devote the necessary resources to deliver up-to-date Local Development Frameworks. Failure to do so will cause delays and confusion to the detriment of both applicant and the local community. More articles from CBI: | 
