6.6 The Government is already taking steps to simplify the planning process and improve accountability.
6.7 The Government is simplifying the Town and Country planning process in England by introducing the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). A presumption in favour of sustainable development sits at the heart of the draft NPPF, requiring a positive approach to be taken to plan-making (so that they accommodate identified needs) and to decisions on individual planning applications. Part of the positive approach taken within the NPPF includes a commitment to maintaining national green belt protection, as it plays a valuable role in stopping urban sprawl and provides a green lung around towns and cities. A public consultation on the draft NPPF was completed in October.
6.8 The Government has also enacted proposals to improve the major infrastructure planning process in England and Wales so that decisions on projects are taken at a national strategic level. The Localism Bill 2011 will abolish the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC), with its function taken over by the Planning Inspectorate. Under these changes final decisions on projects will be taken by the Secretary of State, although the basic elements of the major infrastructure regime will remain unchanged and will continue to deliver major benefits such as the statutory timescales that bring certainty to the developers.