The Welsh Government is proposing weakening the economic development chapter of Planning Policy Wales to support economic recovery and dropping brownfield-first policies for employment land, although support for brownfield reuse and physical regeneration would be retained.
Employment minister John Griffiths said the proposals are intended to ensure planning policy is aligned with economic policy and the consultation would inform the work of the recently established independent advisory group.
But a weakening of brownfield policy is proposed, although it would still be stronger than in England.
The existing Chapter 7 of Planning Policy Wales says there should be "preference for use of previously developed land, proximity to existing urban developments, good accessibility to the public transport and primary road network and good quality telecommunications".
It also says "development of under-used and vacant previously developed land and premises, especially those adjacent to existing or disused railway lines or docks, which have been safeguarded by local planning authorities indicating the industrial and commercial uses that would be acceptable" should be promoted.
But the proposed new wording simply says planners should meet a number of aims including "promote the reuse of previously developed land" and "deliver physical regeneration".
And it would require planners to "steer economic development to the most appropriate locations, rather
than prevent or discourage such development".
The consultation document says there is a perception that the economic aspects of sustainable development have been overlooked.
It says local authorities should adopt an holistic, "whole economy" approach.
● Mr Griffiths has also promised consultation on a Sustainable Development Bill next year, with legislation in 2013.
