Yorkshire planner responds to Budget 2021

James Hall, partner at planning and design consultancy Barton Willmore, said:

I’m thrilled the UK Infrastructure Bank will be based in Leeds. We now need to see that translate into support for local infrastructure, particularly intercity public transport in Leeds.

As Humber Freeport and support for its offshore wind industry is a great combined opportunity, and I’d like to see this supported by North East and North West rail and road improvements so we can unlock the collective benefit to the North.

Further cash in the “Towns Fund” will help to support more towns in COVID recovery and for long term economic and social regeneration as the Chancellor referenced, I’d like to see new planning and development support such as gap funding as the basis of a more comprehensive approach.

The extension to the Stamp Duty Land Tax and support for first time buyers is good news for the wider regional economy – an active housing market supports jobs and investment. It will also help developers bring forward much-needed new homes to support economic growth ambitions.

There was little said on extra care accommodation and affordable homes, both of which need a real boost post-COVID.