Alan Coleman, relationship director at STB real estate finance (pictured above), welcomes the legislation but is urging for more clarification.

Specifically, the bill will empower councils to set their own planning fees so these can be reinvested into their own planning services.

The government will have the power to step in should these fees be deemed excessive and surpass “cost recovery”, but Alan argues more clarification around the term is needed.

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“While it’s also positive that planning fees will be capped at cost recovery and the government retains the power to intervene if fees are deemed excessive, early clarification on what exactly can be classed as cost recovery is necessary,” said Alan.

“Additionally, some form of adjustment for SME developers may be worth exploring to avoid unintended financial strain.”

Elsewhere, the relationship director points to other areas of the bill that may need further attention.

Specifically, he scrutinises its potential to either empower or further marginalise SME developers, and addresses the need for greater “nuance, clarity and long-term thinking.”

“Getting homes built quickly is important, but getting them built well is essential,” adds Alan.

“If the bill can strike this balance, it could help unlock the high-quality homes and infrastructure Britain needs — not just today, but for generations to come.”