Statutory consultees for sustainable development

That this House notes the Government’s ambition to build 1.5 million new homes but believes these must be the right homes in the right places; further notes that in West Dorset constituency 70% of land lies within a designated National Landscape and that the rural economy depends on a healthy environment, with £320 million annually generated by tourism; regrets that National Landscapes are not statutory consultees in the planning system, nor are water companies, despite their crucial role in managing wastewater and environmental risk; is alarmed that in West Dorset constituency alone there were over 4,200 sewage spills in rivers and 48,000 hours of discharge in the sea last year; recognises that local communities often produce neighbourhood plans that identify the need for affordable social housing, key worker homes and smaller properties for older residents, yet these are frequently overlooked; urges the Government to introduce statutory consultee status for water companies and National Landscapes to help ensure rainwater and sewage management, water security, minimal environmental impact, biodiversity protection and local voice are embedded in the planning process; and believes that a more sustainable planning system is essential to building strong rural communities and safeguarding the environment for future generations.