NFDC reacts to UK gov’s brownfield redevelopment plans

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks during the debate on the King’s Speech in the House of Commons Chamber, in London. (PHOTO: UK Parliament via Reuters)

Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently revealed a raft of changes to the House of Commons in his first King’s Speech, promising to build 1.5 million new homes in England over the next five years.

Plans to reform the planning system would fast-track the planning approval for urban brownfield sites, prioritise the release of lower quality ‘grey belt’ land, and see an investment of £23.7 billion (US$30.2 billion) made in green measures during the next parliament to aid decarbonisation.

The NFDC said: “We support the new government’s commitment to sustainable development and commitment to provide a significant improvement in planning for new housing.

“We firmly believe that prioritising brownfield development is a critical step in protecting our green spaces and promoting sustainability.”

The association added: “By focusing on the redevelopment of brownfield sites, we can significantly reduce the need for new construction on greenfield locations, which will in turn preserve valuable agricultural land.

“The demolition process plays a vital role in this, as it allows us to unlock and recycle materials that can be reused in the creation of new housing and infrastructure projects. This approach not only minimises the consumption of new resources but also enhances the overall sustainability of development projects.”

Meanwhile, the National Demolition Training Group (NDTG) welcomed both the new Minister for Prisons, James Timpson, and the government’s plans for rehabilitating ex-offenders through training and job prospects.

The NDTG said: “Mr Timpson has shown his commitment in rehabilitating ex-offenders through training and job opportunities, a passion shared here at the NDTG.

“Our focus on delivering comprehensive training programs within prisons is aimed at equipping inmates with both valuable skills and qualifications that will aid their reintegration into society.

“These employment opportunities will not only provide meaningful employment to ex-offenders but will importantly relieve the skills gap that must be urgently addressed in the demolition industry.”

It added: “We are excited at the prospect of expanding training and job opportunities available to ex-offenders in the demolition industry. We look forward to positively transforming lives by creating a stronger, more inclusive workforce.”