Decision details

Consideration was given to the recommendations of the Housing and Planning Scrutiny Committee in respect of the Borough Council’s response to proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and other changes to the planning system.  A draft response was attached at Annex 1.

Due regard was given to the views of the Committee, the financial and value for money considerations, assessment of risk and the legal implications.

Particular reference was made to better decision-making on contaminated land (166) and Cllr Taylor proposed a further amendment to strengthen and emphasise the role of the developer in remediation.  For example:

(i)              This includes the requirement that responsibility for securing a safe development principally rests with the developer and/or landowner where a site is affected by contamination or land stability issues.  The role of the Local Planning Authority is to monitor and approve.

This amendment was seconded by Cllr Boughton and supported by the Cabinet, subject to further consultation with the Director of Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services.

A further minor correction was also identified at (145) on page 40 of Annex 1 and this had been drawn to the attention of Officers.

In recognition that the Borough Council had to submit a response to the consultation by the deadline of 10 March 2026, Cllr Taylor proposed, Cllr Boughton seconded and Cabinet

RESOLVED:  That

(1)            the contents of the report be noted;

(2)            the Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council response to the Government’s National Planning Policy Framework: Proposed reforms and other changes to the planning system be approved;

(3)            delegated authority be given to the Director of Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services, in consultation with the Leader of the Borough Council and the Cabinet Member of Planning, to make any necessary minor changes to the Borough Council’s response before submission.