Devolution, Not Decree: FERN's Call for a Ground-Up Approach to Rural Planning

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has proposed giving English councils increased authority to construct on green belt land to stimulate the housing sector, a move that contrasts with current regulations that limit such development to exceptional circumstances only.

He told the BBC that the focus would be on areas that don’t negatively impact the natural beauty of the countryside. An example given was allowing construction on a car park located within the green belt, instead of a playing field.

Starmer accused the government of severe shortcomings in housebuilding and criticised its plans to reduce local housing targets, claiming they would hamper homeownership dreams for many.

The Conservative government, despite promising 300,000 new homes per year by the mid-2020s in its 2019 manifesto, announced in December a loosening of central housing needs targets for councils, amid criticisms from Tory MPs.

In a forthcoming speech to the British Chambers of Commerce, Starmer will contend that current planning restrictions and building blocks are curbing growth, leaving the economy in a sluggish state.

Key points in Labour Proposal

• Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer proposes giving English councils more authority to construct on green belt land to stimulate the housing sector.
• The focus of the proposed construction would be on areas that don’t negatively impact the countryside’s natural beauty, such as car parks located within the green belt.
• Starmer criticises the government’s plans to reduce local housing targets, claiming they would obstruct many people’s aspirations of homeownership.
• Despite promising 300,000 new homes per year by the mid-2020s in its 2019 manifesto, the Conservative government announced in December a relaxation of central housing need targets for councils.
• Starmer will argue in a forthcoming speech to the British Chambers of Commerce that current planning restrictions and obstacles to building are inhibiting economic growth.

FERN Response to Labour Proposal

The Future Economic Rural Network (FERN) has voiced concerns over Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s proposition of “granting English councils greater powers” to construct on green belt land. While we recognise the need for increased housing, we strongly believe that the proposed approach is a top-down decision that lacks insight into the intricate complexities of rural communities.

Daniel Rad, Director of Research, said: “It’s vital to remember that rural England isn’t just about open green fields; it’s about vibrant communities, local economies, and maintaining a unique way of life that is integral to our national identity. The green belt serves a crucial role in preserving these aspects by preventing urban sprawl and fostering the rural economy.”

The ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach that Starmer proposes, while well-intentioned, could lead to detrimental outcomes for these rural communities. His statement that construction would only occur where it doesn’t “affect the beauty of our countryside” is subjective and problematic, given that beauty isn’t the sole determinant of the green belt’s value.”

What rural England needs isn’t a top-down directive, but a devolved approach that gives the power of planning decisions to rural councils. These councils understand their communities’ specific needs and are best positioned to balance housing demands with preserving their unique rural character.”

We call for fresh thinking, not just on the green belt but on a comprehensive rural policy that nurtures our rural communities, supports local economies, and safeguards the environmental value of our countryside. Decisions about rural areas should not be made by those disconnected from them. Instead, they should be made by those who live, work, and understand the nuances of these areas.”

We urge Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party to reconsider this proposal and engage in meaningful dialogue with rural councils and communities. We need housing solutions that work for everyone, not just those in urban centres.”

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