Plans to allow local authorities to dictate the type and mix of new housing schemes have gone out to consultation, easing industry’s fears that they would be introduced without proper examination. <p></p><p>Housebuilders reacted with horror last October when a leaked version PPG3 revealed that local authorities would be empowered to dictate the size, type and mix of development. The industry lobbied against the move causing it to be delayed. Now the ODPM has decided to garner more views in its document Planning for Mixed Communities, a move welcomed by the industry. </p><p>Confirmed changes to PPG3 mean that housing applications on redundant commercial land will be considered favourably and small sites in rural areas can be allocated solely for affordable housing. </p><p>&amp;• The government’s Density Direction, which requires planning authorities to consult the secretary of state on schemes of fewer than 30 homes per hectare, has been extended from Growth Areas to the South West and the East of England.</p>