The Government’s £39 billion Affordable Homes Programme signals a long-term approach to tackling the housing crisis. However, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) warns that, without sufficient planning capacity and access to specialist training, the delivery of sustainable, community-focused places remains at risk. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the
The Prime Minister has announced a new AI-powered tool, “Extract,” aimed at streamlining administrative processes within the planning system and supporting the delivery of 1.5 million homes over the next Parliament. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: “While AI tools can help alleviate the
Oxford City Council has approved plans for a new, modern community centre in the heart of Blackbird Leys. The council’s planning committee gave the go-ahead on Tuesday 20 May, paving the way for construction to begin later this year. The new centre is part of a broader redevelopment of the
Cambridge City Council has released updated plans for its Civic Quarter project, which aims to transform three of the city centre’s key landmarks, the Cambridge Market, Corn Exchange, and Guildhall, into more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable spaces. The public is now invited to give feedback on the revised proposals ahead
Keyland Seeks To Deliver 150 New Homes Including Innovative Self-Build Keyland Developments Ltd, the property trading arm of Kelda Group and sister-company to Yorkshire Water, is seeking consent from North Yorkshire Authority to deliver an innovative new housing development centred around its sustainable approach to development. The plans for 150
The House Builders Association (HBA), the housebuilding division of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) has reignited its campaign for the planning system to adopt five clear site size definitions, replacing the current, arbitrary ones of ‘Minor’ (one to ten homes) and ‘Major’ (ten and above). Richard Beresford, Chief Executive
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has confirmed the delivery of 284 new energy-efficient homes in Enfield, as part of a development on land at North Middlesex University Hospital. The project, being delivered in partnership with Vistry Group and the Hyde Group, is the latest milestone in the Mayor’s ongoing
Great Places Housing Group has formally submitted plans for the first development to come forward under the newly approved masterplan for the regeneration of the Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood in east Manchester. The proposal outlines a new affordable housing scheme comprising 82 apartments for social rent, to be constructed on
RSK has successfully supported Heidelberg Materials UK in achieving planning permission for the company’s Padeswood carbon capture and storage (CCS) project in North Wales – the first carbon capture enabled cement works in the UK – representing a groundbreaking project for the cement industry. Planning permission was received from the
A major new multi-generational housing scheme is set to take shape in Congleton after the McGoff Group secured unanimous planning approval for its proposed development on Morley Drive, the former site of John Morley Limited. Approved at a recent planning committee meeting, the joint application from the McGoff Group and
The Government’s £39 billion Affordable Homes Programme signals a long-term approach to tackling the housing crisis. However, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) warns that, without sufficient planning capacity and access to specialist training, the delivery of sustainable, community-focused places remains at risk. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “The Government has shown a serious commitment to addressing the housing crisis with long-term investment to deliver the homes communities across the UK urgently need. However, planning must be recognised not only as a key policy lever but also as a profession that requires sustained investment to help achieve these commitments. “While the overall increase in local authority core spending power is welcome, it does not guarantee the funding needed for planning services. Targeted investment in planning teams is essential to meet growing demand and deliver on national priorities. “We support the strong focus on education and training, but the key issues around resourcing are only exacerbated by the restriction of funding for Level 7 Apprenticeships to those aged 16 – 21. This will result in the loss of up to 200 future planners a year from RTPI-accredited universities. “With the profession already facing severe skills shortages, it is vital that access to advanced and specialist training, including postgraduate routes, remains open to both new entrants and those looking to upskill.” The RTPI also highlighted the importance of ensuring funding settlements for devolved governments translate into meaningful investment in planning, particularly in areas like Scotland and Wales where local authority capacity is under severe strain. The Institute welcomes the significant investment in public service delivery in Northern Ireland. But notes that infrastructure investment across the nations must also be matched by planning resource if delivery goals are to be achieved. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Prime Minister has announced a new AI-powered tool, “Extract,” aimed at streamlining administrative processes within the planning system and supporting the delivery of 1.5 million homes over the next Parliament. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: “While AI tools can help alleviate the pressures of a planner’s day-to-day work, they must support, not replace, planners’ local discretion, expertise, and judgement in decision-making processes. “We welcome the use of AI to make admin tasks faster and more efficient, build sound and consistent evidence bases for Local Plans, and free up planners to focus their time and expertise where it is needed most. “Planning decisions require professional expertise to consider subjective, creative and complex considerations. Whilst AI tools no doubt have a helpful part to play, they can be no substitute for professional advice, common sense and emotional intelligence. There’s no value in processing applications more quickly if the developments that follow are low-quality.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Oxford City Council has approved plans for a new, modern community centre in the heart of Blackbird Leys. The council’s planning committee gave the go-ahead on Tuesday 20 May, paving the way for construction to begin later this year. The new centre is part of a broader redevelopment of the District Centre, being delivered by Peabody in partnership with Oxford City Council. The wider regeneration project includes 294 new affordable homes, improved retail spaces, enhanced green areas, and upgraded roads and cycle infrastructure. Designed to serve as a hub for local residents, the purpose-built community centre will feature three large halls, office spaces and inviting communal areas. Capable of hosting up to 800 visitors, the centre aims to support a wide range of activities and services, from advice and wellbeing support to community events and celebrations. The development will also introduce a new public square with play areas, a rain garden, accessible equipment and public art. Local residents will have opportunities to contribute to the final design of the artwork, reinforcing the project’s community-led approach. The new community centre has been shaped through extensive public engagement, including exhibitions, walkabouts, and design sessions, ensuring it reflects the needs and aspirations of the Blackbird Leys community. It will be owned and operated by Oxford City Council. This latest decision builds on the planning committee’s earlier approval of the wider regeneration masterplan in 2023. The transformation of Blackbird Leys is being delivered in two phases, bringing new homes to Knights Road and the District Centre, alongside major investment in local infrastructure and public spaces. Construction of the first homes is already well under way, with residents expected to move in from summer 2025. Work on the new community centre is scheduled to begin later this year, with the building due for interior fit-out in 2027. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cambridge City Council has released updated plans for its Civic Quarter project, which aims to transform three of the city centre’s key landmarks, the Cambridge Market, Corn Exchange, and Guildhall, into more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable spaces. The public is now invited to give feedback on the revised proposals ahead of a planning application expected in late 2025. The updates follow a round of community engagement held in summer 2024 and reflect public input on how best to enhance these much-loved heritage sites while ensuring they remain vibrant, functional, and environmentally responsible. Cambridge Market The latest proposals continue to support a thriving seven-day market with a combination of permanent and demountable stalls, the latter to offer flexibility based on trader demand. Demountable stalls will be trialled with traders in the coming weeks. The plans include new covered seating areas to provide shelter and comfort. In response to earlier concerns about anti-social behaviour, the size of the canopy has been reduced, and additional lighting has been proposed to improve safety. An underground bin storage area will help declutter the space, while the square is also set to host small-scale cultural events like outdoor film screenings and themed markets. Importantly, the existing fountain—originally slated for removal—will now be retained and restored, and the wider area will see increased planting to boost biodiversity. Corn Exchange The Corn Exchange is set to benefit from energy-saving upgrades, including insulation and solar panels, as well as full accessibility throughout the venue. Improved sound quality and updated audiovisual systems are part of the plan to meet higher standards for performers and audiences alike. More concessions and bar areas will be introduced to reduce queues and expand food and drink options. Event capacity will also increase to allow for larger audiences and a broader range of events. The Guildhall The Grade II-listed Guildhall will be conserved and upgraded to operate at net zero carbon, following EnerPHit standards. This includes the installation of Air Source Heat Pumps and solar panels. On the ground floor, a new customer service centre and a public café will be introduced, along with a Changing Places toilet to improve accessibility. The Council Chamber, currently hampered by fixed furniture and limited accessibility, will be made more flexible and inclusive. The historic furniture will be retained for use elsewhere in the building, and the reconfigured space will accommodate future needs such as increased councillor numbers and varied community use. Workspaces for council staff, commercial tenants, and bookable public rooms are planned across the other floors. Modern yet sensitive updates will also be made to the large and small halls to enhance their usability. Responding to community concerns, a previously suggested hotel development within the Guildhall has been removed from the latest proposal. The council is inviting residents to view the detailed plans and provide feedback by Sunday 22 June. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Keyland Seeks To Deliver 150 New Homes Including Innovative Self-Build Keyland Developments Ltd, the property trading arm of Kelda Group and sister-company to Yorkshire Water, is seeking consent from North Yorkshire Authority to deliver an innovative new housing development centred around its sustainable approach to development. The plans for 150 homes in Pickering, North Yorkshire include a mix of housing to deliver a diverse and inclusive community. The circa 12.4 acre site is located north of Whitby Road on the north-eastern edge of the market town of Pickering between existing communities and a new county park. The vacant site has been identified by Keyland as prime for a high-quality, sustainable development guided by its ‘Six Capital’s’ approach ensuring positive environmental, social and economic outcomes. The masterplan has been devised by award-winning architects Tate + Co, whose past projects include working with The Eden Project, and seeks to create a holistic community and sustainable development of 150 homes including areas of public space and a large-scale ‘green corridor’ for Pickering. The proposed housing mix of 1-4 bed homes includes SME builder plots, self/custom-build opportunities and volume-built homes to reflect a forward-thinking approach to housing delivery. This innovative strategy is aimed at supporting local builders, encouraging architectural diversity and meeting a wide range of needs including up to 35% affordable housing. Matthew Turnbull, Land & Planning Manager at Keyland, said; “Following our recent community consultations, this development represents a significant opportunity to deliver much-needed new homes for the Pickering area. The sensitive and sustainable design supports inclusive community growth, promotes active and healthy lifestyles, enhances ecological networks and positively contributes to Pickering’s economic and social fabric. We look forward to receiving feedback on our plans which we are confident will make a valuable and lasting addition to the town.” Laurence Pinnfire, Director at Tate + Co, added; “Working to Keyland’s ‘Blueprint for development’, the proposed scheme will be an exemplar of sustainable design. Demonstrating our commitment to Regenerative Architecture, the sympathetic masterplan takes into account the nature of the site, the character of its surroundings and the location’s existing areas of biodiversity to create a diverse and inclusive, community environment. New green links will provide improved connections with the local town and new county park. The masterplan will also deliver high-quality, ecological habitat. The team here at Tate + Co is delighted to be part of such an important – and positive – project for North Yorkshire.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The House Builders Association (HBA), the housebuilding division of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) has reignited its campaign for the planning system to adopt five clear site size definitions, replacing the current, arbitrary ones of ‘Minor’ (one to ten homes) and ‘Major’ (ten and above). Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the NFB, said: “In order to build 1.5 million new homes and save our SME builders, we need a planning system that is fit for purpose, prioritises placemaking, and enables builders of all sizes. Our proposal for five different site sizes based on development impact would end the arbitrary, problematic two site size approach and aligns with what is already going on in local planning, while ensuring the Government’s planning reforms can deliver growth and good planning outcomes.” In 2018, the HBA was successful in inserting a paragraph into the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) to support small and medium-size sites. However, with the then Conservative government focusing on tweaks rather than reforms, the HBA scaled back it’s ask to a ‘Medium’ sized site of between 10 and 50 homes. Although this was never taken up by the Conservative government, the term ‘medium’ was added to the NPPF, alongside a site size of ‘up to one hectare.’ NPPF reforms did not achieve their intended ambition. Data shows an increasing reliance on large site allocations, while non-allocated ‘windfall’ sites, typically under one hundred homes, are not given as great planning focus, however they can make up more than 50% of new local supply. To address this, the NFB and HBA are calling for the following site sizes to be included in planning policy: Rico Wojtulewicz, Head of Policy and Market Insight for the NFB, said: “Smaller sites of 1 to 10 homes support projects best targeting local demand. Sites of 10 to 50 are focused on organic growth. Sites of fifty to one hundred support almost all SMEs and do not greatly impact existing infrastructure. Meanwhile sites of 100 to 249 and 250+, whether urban or rural, create a threshold which ensures planners can strategically build out their communities or boundaries. Different site sizes also allow planning reform to avoid unintended consequences, such as making planning more expensive for SMEs, creating more burdens for non-allocated sites, or to target support, for example streamlining planning for sites creating the lowest levels of local impact. Although redefining site size is not a silver bullet to fix planning, it ensures that from the outset the system and reforms are set up to succeed, so we can achieve a planning system that supports better placemaking and recognises the value of all builders, whether micro, small or large.” The NFB’s ‘Size Matters’ report will available in the ‘Research and Political’ section of Ask NFB https://ask-nfb.builders.org.uk/documents-category/research-and-political/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has confirmed the delivery of 284 new energy-efficient homes in Enfield, as part of a development on land at North Middlesex University Hospital. The project, being delivered in partnership with Vistry Group and the Hyde Group, is the latest milestone in the Mayor’s ongoing drive to tackle the capital’s housing crisis. The homes will be a mix of social rent and shared ownership, set within a development that includes low-rise flats and terraced properties ranging from one to four bedrooms. “I’m determined to do everything in my power to make housing more affordable and sustainable for Londoners, which is why I’m partnering with Vistry Group to deliver 284 new homes at North Middlesex University Hospital – a 100 per cent genuinely affordable housing scheme,” said the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. “In addition to delivering much needed new homes, this landmark development will feature new green spaces and first-class community facilities – including a nursery and café – serving not only future residents, but the wider community as a whole. “Tackling housing pressures in the capital and delivering affordable new homes for Londoners remains a top priority for me as we work together to build a better, fairer London for everyone.” The homes will meet high standards of energy efficiency and design, including triple glazing, dual aspect layouts, and advanced ventilation systems. They will be connected to Enfield’s new borough-wide low-carbon energy network, which removes the need for individual boilers and is expected to reduce energy costs for residents. In addition to housing, the scheme will provide 1,500 square metres of green space, a community café, nursery, and a 3,000 square metre office building to support local jobs and services. The development is designed to integrate with the hospital campus and benefit the wider community. Kevin Delve, Managing Director of Vistry East London, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the GLA and Hyde to deliver 284 homes in Enfield, of which 100% will be affordable, meeting a crucial need for high-quality housing. “Drawing on our extensive experience in delivering transformational residential-led projects in London, this mixed-use development will not only provide much-needed homes but also new office space. “We will also deliver a new park, café, and nursery, ensuring long-term benefits for the wider community and helping to create a thriving, well-connected place for people to live and work.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Great Places Housing Group has formally submitted plans for the first development to come forward under the newly approved masterplan for the regeneration of the Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood in east Manchester. The proposal outlines a new affordable housing scheme comprising 82 apartments for social rent, to be constructed on a vacant site at the corner of Grey Mare Lane and Ashton New Road. The brownfield site was previously home to the Manchester Bar pub, which was demolished in 2020. The planned development will include a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, with features such as private garden spaces for select ground-floor homes, a communal garden, balconies for most upper-floor units, and high-quality landscaping throughout. The scheme also includes a new pedestrian link aimed at improving connectivity from Newcombe Close to Grey Mare Lane and Ashton New Road. The project has been developed in close collaboration with Manchester City Council, One Manchester, and This City, and forms a key part of the broader Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood masterplan, approved in September 2024. The long-term plan will deliver 1,000 new homes, including a substantial portion of affordable units, as well as new green spaces and community infrastructure. Helen Spencer, Executive Director of Growth at Great Places Housing Group, commented: “We are delighted to submit our plans for the first of our planned affordable housing developments as part of the wider regeneration of the Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood. This project represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable homes for the community in East Manchester. “This development has been made possible through our close partnership with Manchester City Council, One Manchester, and This City. Together, we are dedicated to transforming the Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood into a vibrant and sustainable community. We look forward to seeing these plans come to fruition and making a positive impact on the lives of local residents.” The development is the first of two proposed developments in the area to be delivered by Great Places, with details for a second affordable homes development on a site on Sunny Lowry Road expected to be submitted next year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
RSK has successfully supported Heidelberg Materials UK in achieving planning permission for the company’s Padeswood carbon capture and storage (CCS) project in North Wales – the first carbon capture enabled cement works in the UK – representing a groundbreaking project for the cement industry. Planning permission was received from the Welsh Government on 4 April 2025 – five months ahead of schedule. Padeswood carbon capture and storage project, which will connect to the HyNet North West project, aims to be the first net zero cement facility in the UK and a global exemplar for the deployment of carbon capture technology at an existing cement works site. Once operational, it will capture and store approximately 800,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum, capturing up to 95% of CO2 emissions from the existing Padeswood cement kiln. RSK Environment Principal Environmental Consultant Harry Cross said the project is the furthest advanced carbon capture project at an operational cement works in the UK by some distance. He said: “We are proud to have achieved planning permission for this important and rewarding project that demonstrates the UK leading the way on deploying CCS in the cement industry. “Our work here saw RSK Environment acting as environment, consents and permitting lead, including coordinating the environmental impact assessment (EIA) and project managing the development of national significance (DNS) application. We were also able to draw on the skills and experience of 12 additional RSK Group businesses, including Joanna Berlyn from Stephenson Halliday as planning lead and Copper Consultancy as communications lead for the programme of community engagement and consultation.” It is estimated that the project will create up to 500 additional jobs during the construction phase and will also create around 50 direct, long-term operational employment opportunities. The project also proposes the creation of four new ponds, nine hibernacula and 17 refugia (places where amphibians can rest during the day and escape from predators and the sun and, in winter, where they will hibernate). It is envisaged that the planting of mixed deciduous woodland and the enhancement of grassland will cover an area of around 10.13 ha and will improve its value for great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) foraging and offer wider biodiversity benefits for other protected species. Harry said the project is an impressive example of how RSK can draw on its broad range of multidisciplinary skills to achieve a major infrastructure planning application. The combined RSK team compiled and submitted more than 100 documents as part of its contribution to the planning submission. The 13 businesses involved in the DNS application were: He said that throughout the programme, RSK Environment worked closely with the project front end engineering design (FEED) team, advising on design requirements for planning. Harry said that RSK Environment collaborated with other RSK Group businesses to prepare and submit the EIA scoping report in late 2022. A scoping direction from Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) was received in April 2023. He said: “Our collaboration continued as the EIA evolved and work on the environmental statement began in 2023 through to 2024. Nine environmental factor assessments were undertaken, including landscape and visual, biodiversity, climate and noise and vibration, to understand the impact of the project on the environment and propose mitigation and enhancements to offset the impacts. Findings were reported in the environmental statement. “Alongside this, Copper Consultancy coordinated a programme of community engagement and consultation and organised two pre-consultation events in 2022, a further three online and six non-statutory and statutory pre-application consultation events at local venues in 2023 and 2024, respectively. The planning application was submitted on 27 September 2024.” Heidelberg Materials UK Chief Executive Officer Simon Willis said: “This is fantastic news and a brings our plans to create the UK’s first net zero cement works a step closer. “Cement is essential to the UK’s transition to net zero. It is fundamental to the development of everything from new offshore wind farms to nuclear power stations, to low carbon infrastructure, and the thousands of green jobs these projects will create. “Our Padeswood CCS project will bring significant inward investment and opportunity to the region, boosting the North Wales economy and securing the future of hundreds of skilled jobs. “Once operational, it will also provide net zero building materials for major projects across the country and will act as an exemplar for sustainable cement production in the UK and across the globe.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major new multi-generational housing scheme is set to take shape in Congleton after the McGoff Group secured unanimous planning approval for its proposed development on Morley Drive, the former site of John Morley Limited. Approved at a recent planning committee meeting, the joint application from the McGoff Group and McCarthy & Stone will see the four-acre brownfield site transformed into a mixed-use community. The scheme includes a 70-bed care home, 53 retirement apartments, and 14 three-bedroom townhouses. “We are thrilled this scheme was passed unanimously earlier this week,” said Chris McGoff, Director at the McGoff Group. “We have worked closely with the Council, Canals & Rivers Trust and Network Rail to ensure the proposed plans perfectly suit the site, which is close to both the railway line and Macclesfield Canal. “More importantly, we will deliver much needed care beds and a retirement setting, with a shortfall of both recently identified in Congleton, as well as high quality, new build homes. Jobs in the locality will also be created, with the care home alone providing circa 100 jobs.” The development, designed by C-Squared Architects, will feature mill-inspired architecture in keeping with the local conservation area. Sustainability is central to the plans, with green roofs, solar PV panels, and a sustainable drainage system integrated into the design. The scheme also includes the creation of a tree-lined pedestrian and cycle route along the canal, linking the new development to Congleton train station. This addition aims to enhance local connectivity and promote active travel within the community. Construction is expected to begin later this year, with McGoff Construction Services—part of the McGoff Group—set to lead the build. The care home will be operated by the Group’s luxury care brand, Dunham Care, marking its third facility in development, with eight more in the pipeline. Meanwhile, McCarthy & Stone will be responsible for delivering the retirement complex, which will comprise 31 one-bedroom and 22 two-bedroom apartments, catering to the growing demand for high-quality retirement living in the area. Work is expected to start by late summer. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
