<p>The planning white paper represents “fundamental reform” to the planning system with the industry urged to give their views, Joanna Averley, MHCLG’s chief planner, said today (September 15).</p><p><span>Speaking at HBF’s Planning Conference, held virtually, Averley said the paper signalled “full system reform and how it relates to commercial activities, viability and risk profiles”. She stated the government’s intention to deliver more homes more quickly while “taking risks out of the process”.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>Averley gave an overview of some aspects of the paper - out for consultation until October 29 – including preparation of local plans, land zoning and community engagement.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>With the government proposing a more national approach to planning, “this is not about taking out democracy, but about frontloading the process,” Averley said. “[The paper] puts the onus on engagement much earlier in the process.” </span></p><p></p> <p><span>Another key aspect of the reforms was the Infrastructure Levy, Averley said, “although we haven’t designed it yet”. She likened the proposed levy to a “roof tax”, based on the final value of the development.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>“The drive behind the paper is genuine,” she said. “There is an appetite to make sure we have a planning system for the future.”</span></p><p></p> <p><span>Also speaking at the conference, …