Planning law reform ‘could lead to twotier system’

Planning law reform being considered by the coalition government may lead to a two-tier system, according to developer Hammerson.

Head of retail at the company Robin Dobson stated that it could make it easier for groups to block some new developments, reports the Yorkshire Post.

At a panel debate titled Planning for Localism that was held at Leeds Metropolitan University, he stated that a two-tier system could be on the way, leading to “strong towns and cities”.

He added: “But potentially because certain groups have greater power, they have the opportunity to derail good developments in places where the leadership isn’t as good”.

Sam Schofield, director of communications consultancy PPS Group, added that planning law reform is an area “fraught” with danger.

The British Property Federation was recently forced to deny it has formed a “pact” with the minister behind the proposals Greg Clark, after the Daily Telegraph reported he had asked the body to lobby the coalition government regarding the plans.