The Government has responded to the opposition motion in Oldham council to reject Places for Everyone; thankfully the Government is committed to a plan-led approach that benefits local people, so has decided not to allow Oldham to withdraw from Places for Everyone.
Local plans are absolutely crucial. They provide the stability and certainty that communities, businesses, and developers need to see the planning system working effectively. These plans aren’t just a piece of paper but a vital tool for attracting investment, driving growth, and ensuring we get the housing, jobs, and infrastructure our area needs.
It is true that Oldham desperately needs affordable housing developments to meet our demand, but we also need a plan that listens to local people’s wishes and concerns. One way Places for Everyone would do this is by protecting our green spaces and ensuring development on brownfield is prioritised first. Housing developments can’t compromise the communal spaces that make Oldham, Oldham.
Places for Everyone would also respond to local concerns over the type of developments made in our town, such as the amount of HMO’s. By letting private landlords build without a strict local plan regulated by the council, this would only increase rather than decrease. Having a local plan that is aware of and responsive to local people’s concerns is critical in making sure developments are strengthening our town, rather than dividing it.
It’s important to note that the plan was not perfect – given the competing tensions in the council it was never going to be. However, a local plan is the best way to stop a free for all for developers, protect important green belt and build the homes we need for local families.
A responsible government couldn’t let a fragile political situation in Oldham stop us looking for solutions that benefit all. The opposition parties brought in this motion to destabilise the Labour leadership, they did not bring this in thinking about what is best for Oldham. As the Housing Minister confirmed there is ‘no justification’ for stopping Places for Everyone.
Helpfully, the Government’s response has been published on the government website if you would like to read further: https://www.gov.uk/…/oldham-council-places-for-everyone…
The Government’s commitment to the plan-led system is great news for the future of our town. I will continue to work with my constituents to ensure that Oldham’s planning policies evolve in a way that both reflects local needs and contributes to the national agenda for growth and sustainability.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 