HPDG allocation mechanism (yrs 2 & 3) consultation

POS regrets the planned reduction in HPDG proposed over the next two years. This will hamper delivery of DPD's and housing. Mitigating circumstances should be taken into account.

POS is concerned that consultation on the Allocation Mechanism for years 2 and 3 is taking place beyond the accounting period for year 2 of HPDG and part way into year 3.  The Society would hope that in any future development of HPDG consultation would take place well in advance of the relevant accounting period.  This would assist in enabling the Grant to achieve one of its purposes, to incentivise efficient and effective planning procedures, so that Local Authorities can plan in advance to meet appropriate targets.

Notwithstanding this criticism, the Society welcomes the opportunity to comment on the proposed allocation mechanism of HPDG for years 2 and 3.  Current economic conditions have hit Local Authorities' budgets hard and the downturn in planning fee income has meant that many Local Authority Planning Departments are struggling to maintain the capacity to deliver vital planning services which contribute to delivering a wide range of Government policy objectives.  Housing and Planning Delivery Grant is a vital component of the resource base for Local Planning Authorities and it is therefore disappointing that a cut in the Grant of £75,000,000 is proposed over the next two years.

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