Growth and Infrastructure Bill - Second Reading
Speaking in the House of Commons debate on the Growth & Infrastructure Bill, Martin drew attention to the problems facing areas that are overwhelmed by planning applications for housing developments that can change the character of an area. In the Humberston and New Waltham ward planning applications already in place with an anticipated total of 2,500 houses. This is unsustainable with regard to infrastructure. It is good to see that the Bill links growth and infrastructure, because too often we allow growth but the infrastructure and local services lag too far behind.
In the debate Martin urged ministers to do all they can to speed up the planning process, particularly for industrial projects. He said ‘Priorities vary, depending on circumstances. We are currently in a period of austerity and economic downturn. At such a time, the emphasis must be on freeing up the system to allow growth and jobs to develop.'
After the debate Mr Vickers said that 'it was a useful debate that showed how determined the Government are to encourage new investment. Whether business or residential development and whatever side of the argument you are on, it is essential that speedy decisions are reached. We want the investment but where developments are not wanted delay can only cause uncertainty and in some cases can even impact on the value of properties.’
Link to Hansard