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Communities 'need real incentives' to back developments
06/12/10
Edited by Bob Witham.The government must provide communities with "real incentives" to support builders in the delivery of new commercial or residential property within their neighbourhoods, it has been argued.
British Property Federation (BPF) chief executive Liz Peace said a locally driven planning system could produce better developments with "real buy-in" from people living in the surrounding area.
However, she added, it is vital that changes are designed to stimulate economic growth, while proposals like the New Homes Bonus and the retention of business rates are used to deliver benefits to existing residents.
"Incentives to expedite new development are needed to ensure that localism does not lead to nimbyism," Ms. Peace argued.
Under government plans for the New Homes Bonus, councils that back the construction of housing in their area will receive a share of a £1 billion pot to spend on tax discounts, frontline services or community facilities.
The Home Builders Federation has said the measure would allow town halls to generate much-needed revenue while delivering the accommodation local people need.
