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Housing: Construction

Asked by Jim ShannonDemocratic Unionist PartyMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 23 July 2026UIN 18598

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to ensure that new developments include adequate infrastructure and community services.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) published in December 2024 makes clear that local planning authorities should plan positively for the provision and use of shared spaces, community facilities, transport and other infrastructure to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments, taking into account local strategies to improve health, social and cultural wellbeing for all sections of the community.

Between 16 December 2025 and 10 March 2026, we consulted on a new NPPF. That consultation, which can be found on gov.uk here, included proposals relating to community facilities and public service infrastructure.

We are currently analysing the feedback received and will publish our response in due course.

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