Planning and the Environment: Managing Growth Sustainably (Leeds)

We are also running this event in London on 15th May, for details please click here

The Context & Issues:

One of the key commitments of the current coalition government is to drive economic growth in an attempt to stabilise the UK economy. Proposed changes to the planning system through the NPPF and other key policies, will simplify the planning process in an attempt to give more power to local communities and encourage development. However, environmental campaigners are keen to stress that the need for growth should not be at the cost of our natural environment. How do we strike the balance between a fluid planning system and a healthy environment?

Engaging with the panel, key issues to be addressed at this Policy and Practice Briefing will include:

• Planning policy and the environment: How can we safeguard the protection of the natural environment through the planning system?
• Understanding the policy context: The Localism Act 2011, the draft National Planning Policy Framework and The Natural Environment White Paper
  
• What does the policy landscape mean for stakeholders? What are the key commitments and changes? What action is needed? What are the risks and opportunities?
  
• The Green Infrastructure Partnership
  
• The impact of the Draft Planning Policy Statement: Planning for a Natural and Healthy Environment
  
• The power of Neighbourhood Planning to protect green spaces in communities
  
• Sustainable development: Delivering a low carbon and eco-friendly economy
  
• Has the planning system got the balance right between pursuing development and protecting the environment? Is the current system a brake on development?
  
• Examples of cross departmental working and engagement between the planning and conservation sector
  

Objectives and Outcomes:

The morning 'Current and Future Policy' session will allow participants to engage with the panel in discussing the current legislative framework for the planning system and its impact on development and the environment. The session will help improve your understanding of how the proposals will affect your organisation.

The afternoon 'Policy into Practice' session will be highly interactive with case study examples of planning authorities working with the conservation sector and local communities to promote development and protect the natural environment. Presentations will offer practical tips on improving working practices, which you can take back to your organisation.

Who Should Attend?

Delegates will be drawn from a wide range of stakeholders, including: local authorities, planning authorities, housing providers, the Environment Agency, Biodiversity forums, Biodiversity Action Partnerships, Wildlife Trusts, NGOs and charities, social enterprises and community groups, heavy industry and businesses, legal companies, developers, trade associations, green groups, tourism offices, Chambers of Commerce, conservationists, academia, relevant central government teams and any other practitioner with an interest in planning policy and the environment.

Morning refreshments will be served upon arrival with a networking lunch to follow. Any special needs or dietary requirements should be notified to us upon booking. Participants will receive copies of all the presentations at the end of the day and a copy of the chair's summary within a week of the event.