How we use available planning powers for housing?
Ian Baird, Director, Gladedale (Partnership) Ltd.
Brian Gegan, Chief Executive, Cairn Housing Association
A shortage of available land is stopping Scotland delivering affordable housing. Both presenters agreed that planning policies regarding the release of land inhibit the ability to provide affordable housing, and lead to the erosion of balanced and sustainable communities.
Brian Gegan, Chief executive of Cairn Housing Association said Scotland is facing a housing crisis compounded by exploding housing prices, irresponsible lending, increasing rates of repossession and a shift in the traditional view of a house as an investment versus a home.
Gegan stressed that the crisis is increasingly critical with delays in development plans, extended consultations and a shortage of planning staff. He was optimistic that the Scottish Executive has agreed to review the SPP3. However, any review must address release mechanisms for land, processes and procedures, and a national consistency in the approach.
Ian Baird provided the developers perspective of planning issues and the role of the private sector in addressing all aspects of the housing market. He expressed growing concerns over housing needs assessments, land supply constraints, and distortion in the affordable housing sector.
He suggested innovative developments, new housing designs, an increase in the release of suitable lands, and use of compulsory purchase orders can address the challenges developers face. Ultimately, the planning system was designed to create social justice and social benefit and should be an instrument in the provision of affordable housing.