This is the policy of Lee Rowley the new housing minister. Engaging with residents means they must step up to the plate too. Rights come with responsibilities, he says. Will he and his boss have the courage to follow through? Taken literally, these words will mend the broken planning system.
For example, look at Maidenhead’s residents efforts to stop housing on the virtually town centre golf course. They have powerful case on more than one level to make it into public open space. But will the residents also encourage, support and direct the council towards a long term, sustainable solution for their children and grandchildren, who face house prices which, if we are honest, are gross? And what is more, will the owners of houses which directly benefit also help?
Has the time for reality arrived? Facing facts will not be easy, but it is the first humble step towards a solution.
Ian Campbell
3 October 2022
