Janet Burnell, sales and marketing director of Kent-based Pentland Homes looks at the government’s new planning framework.

The recent publication of the revised National Planning Policy Framework by the government has, it is hoped, simplified a once complex and cumbersome planning system.

One recurring thread throughout the framework is the developer’s relationship with the local council, authorities and the community. As a house builder based in Kent, we want to support and enhance the local area so that it prospers for future generations.

We have regular meetings with our different district county councils and have built long term relationships with Shepway Borough Council in particular. In the 1970s, we bought more than 200 acres at Hawkinge.

The land had been used as a Second World War airbase and needed to be carefully surveyed and completely cleared to ensure the ground was made suitable for residential development. Over the years, we have continued our relationship with Shepway to the point that we are now responding to the area’s needs, creating a functioning community.

Our new development, Terlingham Forum, at Hawkinge, which is being put on the market at the end of April, will offer a mix of housing for different generations, a number of shops and other commercial units, epitomising a sustainable development.

The design of this development will be very much in keeping with the local vernacular, too – this is another key point in the framework – it specifically asks to “respond to local character and history, and reflect the identity of local surroundings and materials, while not preventing or discouraging appropriate innovation”.

Our other developments in Elham and the Bayeuxfields development in Hawkinge are also illustrative of this due to their combination of contemporary design with elements of traditional Kent design.

On reflection we are pleased with the revised document. It will take months, even years to see results – but at least it provides good grounding for now and demonstrates the government’s dedication to achieving sustainability for future generations.

For further information on Pentland Homes, contact 01303 893080 or visit www.pentlandhomes.co.uk