§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will make a statement on how section 106 agreements can be made to encourage cross-boundary co-operation between authorities for the purposes of the delivery of affordable housing; and what guidance he gives on what reference should be made to(a) circular 6/98 and (b) Planning Policy Guidance 3. [19468]
§ Ms KeeblePlanning Policy Guidance Note 3 "Housing" advised that regional planning bodies may need to estimate the future balance between market and affordable housing, and identify and assess regional and sub-regional trends and factors which are likely to influence local housing need. In drafting regional planning guidance, they should also take into account regional housing statements which provide a regional context for local authorities when drawing up their housing strategies and support the development of more strategic approaches to tackling housing need.
We intend to publish shortly a consultation document on our proposals for reforming planning obligations and how we might increase the provision of affordable housing through the planning system.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what checks his Department makes to ensure that there are consistent determinations through the planning process with particular reference to the provision of affordable housing through section 106 agreements. [19469]
§ Ms KeebleDevelopment plans form the framework within which decisions on proposals for development are taken. The Secretary of State is a statutory consultee in their preparation and can make objections when there are conflicts with national guidance, including on affordable housing, which do not appear to be justified by local circumstances. He has powers of intervention to direct that plan proposals shall be modified before adoption. He can also call in planning applications where the provision of affordable housing is at issue.