Planning and Infrastructure Act secures Royal Assent - with implementation and NPPF reforms next

As 2025 draws to an end, Royal Assent was given to the Planning and Infrastructure Act - legislation critical to UK Government to support its aim of delivering 1.5 million new homes and infrastructure investment.

The Act aligns with RICS’ long-standing calls for a more efficient, outcomes-focused planning system that supports sustainable growth, investment confidence and professional standards. RICS residential and construction market surveys consistently show pent up housing demand, but delivery failing to grow at pace.

Measures to streamline decision-making, modernise planning committees and reduce legal complexities is designed to support the sector in navigating the planning system with greater confidence and speed.

Of particular importance to the profession are reforms to land acquisition for housing, infrastructure, and new powers for development corporations to deliver large-scale schemes and new towns; and proposals to simplify approvals for EV charging and clean energy infrastructure. The introduction of a Nature Restoration Fund also provides a clearer, more strategic approach to balancing development with environmental outcomes, an area where surveyors play a critical advisory role.

RICS has consistently highlighted the need for planning reform to support productivity, housing supply and infrastructure investment, while maintaining public trust and environmental responsibility. Challenges remain, with skills, viability and funding to meet future housing and infrastructure needs areas repeatedly raised as barriers to delivery, but the Act goes some way to starting to address some of these concerns.

Attention will now turn to the implementation of the Act, and subsequent legislation and consultations required for its delivery. This includes announcements earlier this week on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Proposed reforms introduce a clear presumption in favour of well-designed, higher-density homes in sustainable locations, including around transport hubs and through building upwards in towns and cities, while making it easier for SME builders to deliver housing on smaller and under-used sites through more proportionate rules.

Surveyors will be central to delivering the Act’s ambitions, providing expertise across valuation, planning, infrastructure, sustainability and land assembly to help turn policy into places and projects that work for people and the economy.

RICS looks forward to shaping and delivering the reforms in 2026 and supporting the delivery of much needed housing and infrastructure.