Members only
NALC warns the government that new towns must not bypass local democracy
We have responded to the government's consultation on the new towns draft programme, welcoming the ambition to bring forward up to 13 new towns to be under construction by the next general election, provided development is delivered in a fair, balanced and locally accountable way.
We support the principle of the programme and recognise its potential to make a significant contribution to national housing targets. However, we stress that success will depend on meaningful engagement with neighbouring parished communities and the proper integration of local democratic structures into the planning and delivery of new settlements.
A central theme of our response is the essential role of parish and town councils in both existing and emerging new town areas. These councils provide democratic local leadership, ensure residents have a direct voice in decision-making, and play a vital role in the stewardship of community assets and local identity.
We call for all new towns that do not currently include parish or town councils to be subject to a community governance review at the earliest possible stage, with new councils established where appropriate. In areas of significant growth, where existing councils are affected, the response highlights the need to assess whether historic parish boundaries remain fit for purpose and to ensure councils are properly engaged and empowered throughout the process.
We also emphasised the importance of sustainable development patterns, particularly in relation to the use of previously developed land and the need to ensure that infrastructure provision is sufficient to support long-term, viable communities.
Finally, we raised concerns about the risks associated with private estate management arrangements in new settlements. It calls for stronger measures to regulate service charges and to guarantee clear, enduring rights for residents, parish and town councils, or other community bodies to take on the management of shared spaces and facilities where appropriate.
Our response underlines the importance of ensuring that the new towns programme not only delivers housing but also embeds democratic accountability, sustainable planning, and strong local governance from the outset.
