Killian Pretty “A recipe for common sense that must be acted upon” The HBF today strongly welcomed the publication of the Killian Pretty review in to the Planning Application process. HBF is now urging the Government and other agencies to act on the recommendations – many of which echo changes the HBF has long been calling for - and so deliver a swifter and more efficient system. Making the recommended changes to what has become an unnecessarily bureaucratic, costly and cumbersome system would provide significant benefits for all parties involved in the planning process – homeowners, small businesses, major developers, local councils and communities- both in terms of time and cost savings. This is especially important in the current economic climate, which is an ideal time to introduce improvements and essential if we are going to be able to deliver the housing this country needs as conditions improve. Andrew Whitaker, Planning Director at the Home Builders Federation said today: "This is an extremely important Review and a recipe for common sense which should have far reaching benefits in simplifying what has become an increasingly complex, costly and time consuming part of the development process. “Although appearing to be simple, the 17 detailed recommendations of the Review Team will require significant changes, both in process and culture within the planning system, but if implemented in totality would have a considerable impact. These changes are a challenge for all involved; central government, local authorities, applicants and their agents and local communities – but the prospective benefit for all surely justifies such effort. “HBF will continue to engage with the process of change and will seek to ensure that housebuilders, as one of the key participants within the planning system, play their full part in implementing the proposals for a more efficient and effective planning application process. We call on others to pledge the same commitment." - Ends - Notes to Editors: 1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the principal representative body for private sector home builders and voice of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s 300 member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner 020 7960 1606 07919 307 760 steve.turner@hbf.co.uk
