Over 100 property professionals attended the Michelmores Planning Conference held at Sandy Park, Exeter, on Wednesday 12 March 2014.
Delegates, including developers, planning consultants and representatives from local authorities, gathered to discuss why the planning system is being increasingly considered as a key contributor to the housing supply shortfall.
The conference addressed the challenges to overcoming barriers in delivering development and meeting housing need. Speakers included Andrew Whitaker, Planning Director of the Home Builders Federation, Jeremy Cavanna of Cavanna Homes and barrister Christiaan Zwart of 39 Essex Street Chambers who provided an overview and round-up of the key legal issues impacting upon the delivery today of new development including the court’s approach to viability and deliverability.
The conference was chaired by Michelmores Associate, David Richardson, who commented: “Everyone agrees that more houses are needed. The question is how and where they will be delivered.
“The planning system is under considerable scrutiny as it is being seen as an obstacle to delivering housing developments and putting a brake on the economy.
“Michelmores’ Annual Planning Conference is a rare opportunity for property professionals and planners to get together and discuss the very real issues affecting the shortfall in house-building we are experiencing.”
The event culminated in a Q&A session and networking.