Loosening environmental protections. Scrapping affordable housing requirements. Fast-tracking development. It is fair to say the government’s strategy for growth, centred on new Investment Zones, seemed a little slim on measures that outwardly respond to local community priorities.
This might not be a fundamental flaw of the zones, but rather an opportunity to look at how we approach them, and how the groundwork could be laid to help Investment Zones deliver for the communities they cover. Co-creation is the answer – where development is brought forward with communities, developers, landowners and councils working to find solutions that deliver for all.
It seems obvious, but it is vital to bring forward jobs and homes together and in proportion. A joined-up plan that shows there will be homes for any new people taking up new jobs in an area is essential for showing communities that economic growth can be mutually beneficial. Local people will have insight into what is achievable, and the consequences of not doing this. They should be at the heart of the process at every stage.
Closely linked to co-creation is investment in and proper planning for supporting infrastructure. This means both transport links and social infrastructure. Investment must be made in 21st-century transport, new schools, GP offices – and even retail and leisure. The timeline must be carefully managed for the community to grow and evolve in a sustainable way.
Moreover, we all need to think holistically about how to secure sustainable growth. Could a focus on Investment Zones risk undermining the advantages of freeports – or the reverse? Will loosening planning and environmental restrictions cause longer-term damage that will irreversibly harm communities and the environment?
Overall, this is about changing the conversation to what we actually want our future world to look like. Partnerships and co-creation empower everyone, give them a stake and ensure local and wider needs are addressed.
Robin Shepherd and Jane Piper are planning directors at Barton Willmore, now Stantec
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