Reform planning planning reform?

With recent polls* suggesting Nigel Farage would become Prime Minister if an election was held tomorrow, understanding Reform UK’s nascent housing and planning policy may well be a worthy piece of preparation for the future.

In their 2024 general election manifesto, Reform acknowledged that Britain did indeed have a housing crisis, and promised to solve this by “unleashing housebuilding across the country” whilst also (obviously) cutting immigration. The manifesto proposed to achieve this through tax incentives for brownfield development, alongside simplifying the infrastructure funding process, but was otherwise notably vague regarding changes to the planning system.

Following the May 2025 elections, however, Reform took control of 10 councils and 2 mayoralties across England, putting them in a position of control for the first time. Though most of these councils were County Councils, without direct control over planning policy, those in charge of unitary councils have already attempted to put forward some planning changes – including Durham Council’s move to make homeowners apply for permission to convert a standard C3 home into an HMO.

Many Reform Council leaders have also begun a programme of cost-cutting in their councils – starting with a focus on “net-zero” schemes (such as heat pumps and electric car roll-outs) as well as Diversity and Inclusivity roles. These councils will undoubtedly act as a testbed for local government efficiency schemes in other councils, however it remains to be seen whether planning departments will benefit from the freed-up resources or move into the cost-cutting firing line themselves.

Prominent Reform figures have also spoken out against the construction of new renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind farms, with Richard Tice warning in May 2025 that “If you are thinking of investing in solar farms, Battery storage systems, or trying to build pylons, think again. We will fight you every step of the way. We will win”.

In summary, whilst a recognition on the need for national housebuilding and a focus on local government efficiency may be welcome news for many in the planning and development industry, others will be concerned by the party’s vehement opposition to renewable infrastructure.

As Reform publish more detailed planning policy proposals we will keep you updated with details.

 

*As at the end of August 2025, Electoral Calculus’ ‘Poll of Polls’ forecast a comprehensive collapse of support for the Conservatives, leading to a Reform Government if an election was held tomorrow with a majority of 86, with the Conservatives having 36 Members of Parliament, Reform 368 and Labour 119.

Whilst we are many years from the next general election it looks like Reform are on the verge of a major breakthrough partly fuelled by both the Conservatives and Labour failing to deliver what they promised in their manifestos. You have been warned!

To see the Poll of Polls click here