John Elliott, managing director of Millwood Designer Homes, writes about the positive aspects of the controversial national planning policy framework that's set to launch next April.

There are a number of groups that want to dilute the National Planning Policy Framework, including the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England and the National Trust.

One thing they are asking the government to introduce is a brownfield first policy which they believe would mean that green belt land is less likely to be overdeveloped. But this concept is flawed as it makes no distinction between derelict, contaminated land and regenerated, bio-diverse recreational land.

It was the previous target of at least 60% of homes being built on previously developed brownfield land that led to so-called garden grabbing.

The framework clearly states that local plans should allocate land with the least environmental or amenity value, addressing both the protection of the environment whilst encouraging the development of more homes which our nation desperately needs.

More importantly, green belt protection is maintained along with that areas of outstanding natural beauty and protected wildlife habitats. The government also proposes to introduce a new local green space designation with equivalent status to the green belt.

Let's not also forget that some brownfield land, for example, contaminated sites, simply has too many costs involved to make it economically viable to construct the homes and businesses needed in an area. A brownfield first policy would prevent local authorities from considering wider options when needed.

I think that the framework should not be diluted and that you should not be listening to the mass hysteria created.

The protection is still there in a big way, and as a house builder I am in complete support of that.

The framework puts power in the hands of local authorities and communities, allowing them more scope and flexibility to determine the most sustainable locations for development. It balances environmental, social and economic requirements in a way that works for everyone.

The longer the housing market is stalled, the longer the recession will go on.

We have a growing population but we are currently not building enough new homes to meet the needs of that growth. The framework will begin to enable us to meet the housing need.

For more information about Millwood Designer Homes call 01732 770991 or visit www.millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk

Earlier this year the government published its draft National Planning Policy Framework for public consultation. It represents the biggest shake-up of planning for over 50 years. To see the proposals in full go to www.communities.gov.uk