Proposed changes to planning rules in England could put half of all affordable new homes in rural areas at risk, according to a new analysis by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE). The analysis warns that relaxing permitted development rights would allow developers to bypass affordable housing requirements, exacerbating the housing crisis in the countryside.
Key Findings of the Analysis
The CPRE examined government plans to extend permitted development rights, which enable certain building projects without full planning permission. Under current rules, developers are often required to include a percentage of affordable homes in new developments. The CPRE's analysis found that if these rights are expanded, up to 50% of affordable housing in rural England could be lost, equating to thousands of homes per year.
According to the CPRE, the government's proposals would allow developers to convert agricultural buildings into homes and build new houses on farmland without needing to provide affordable units. This would particularly affect villages and market towns, where affordable housing is already scarce.
Impact on Rural Communities
The loss of affordable homes would have severe consequences for rural communities, the CPRE said. Young people and key workers, such as teachers and nurses, would be priced out of their local areas, leading to population decline and the erosion of community services.
"Rural England is already facing a housing crisis, with average house prices far exceeding local incomes," said a CPRE spokesperson. "These proposals would make it even harder for people to find a home they can afford, forcing them to move away from family and jobs."
Government Response
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government defended the proposals, arguing that they would streamline the planning system and boost housing supply overall. A spokesperson said: "Our reforms will deliver the homes this country needs while protecting the environment. We are committed to ensuring that affordable housing remains a priority, and we will consult widely on these changes."
However, critics argue that the government has not provided evidence that the benefits of relaxed rules outweigh the risks to affordable housing. The CPRE is calling for a full impact assessment before any changes are implemented.
Broader Context
The analysis comes amid a national housing shortage, with the government aiming to build 300,000 new homes per year. Affordable housing in rural areas is particularly under pressure, as land prices and construction costs remain high. The CPRE's report highlights that without robust planning conditions, market forces will prioritise expensive homes over affordable ones.
"The government must ensure that any reforms to planning rules do not undermine the supply of affordable homes," the CPRE added. "We need a planning system that works for everyone, not just developers."
The government is expected to publish its final proposals later this year, following a consultation period.
