As the political parties set out their election policies, we’re hearing a lot about “building on the greybelt” and “pushing” housing development through planning. The UK desperately needs affordable new homes at scale – the country is missing its target by 100,000 a year according to the Home Builders Federation – and there need to be bold, creative approaches to deliver them. But the rhetoric and reporting around this often sets it up as a battle, as a “war on NIMBYs”. This language is far from useful.

To achieve net zero, things have to change rapidly - buildings, transport, behaviours, energy, and the way we heat and insulate our homes. We also need to look to new technologies and ways of doing things. People must have a voice in how their communities grow and are shaped through development – they are important stakeholders that developers and government must engage with. At its most effective, consultation and engagement can positively enhance planning to meet local needs.

…