UK Planning Gateway took part in a recent Conservative Policy Forum discussion on housing policy with Shadow Housing Secretary James Cleverly, joining contributors from across the sector to explore how planning consultation can become more representative.

The session included contributions from Alex Balkan of the Representative Planning Group (RPG), who raised the need to involve people who are often left out of the process, including young people, renters, and parents balancing work and family life. Mr Cleverly agreed that broader participation is vital to achieving fairer, more effective planning outcomes.

As Balkan later noted on X, empowering the “silent majority” who quietly support new housing could unlock economic growth and strengthen confidence in the planning system.

At UK Planning Gateway, we share that goal. Our work focuses on improving access and understanding in the planning process through clear guidance and digital tools. By reducing barriers to participation, we aim to help more people and professionals engage meaningfully with local development.

A more representative planning system benefits everyone: creating better decisions, stronger communities, and a planning process that truly reflects the country it serves.