​Adam Dance MP Criticises​ Planning System ​Proposals: Calls for Community-Led Housing in Yeovil and South Somerset

Adam Dance MP has sharply criticised the Government’s newly announced planning framework, highlighting its failings in addressing the housing crisis and advocating for a community-first approach. Under the proposed changes, developers can bypass elected local councillors, and councils are being pushed to review green belt land—moves Dance argues undermine local democracy and disregard the needs of communities in Yeovil and South Somerset.

Speaking out against the policy, Adam Dance called on the Labour Party to stop “ignoring local communities like ours” and prioritise reforms that empower local residents. He stressed the need for housing plans that are not dictated from Whitehall, alongside significant investment in local services and an urgent focus on tackling the severe shortfall in social housing.

“There are far too many instances in our area,” ​Adam Dance said, “where developers can overturn council decisions, delay or entirely evade funding necessary infrastructure, and scale back commitments to affordable housing.”

He emphasised that any new development must deliver tangible benefits for local communities:

“The new homes we need in Yeovil and South Somerset must be genuinely affordable and community-led, not dictated from Whitehall. Local services like GPs, schools, and public transport must be built alongside these homes to create sustainable neighbourhoods.

“In Yeovil, South Somerset, and across our region, vulnerable families are desperate for safe, warm housing. Local communities are key to delivering homes that meet the care crisis, assist families in temporary accommodation, and give younger generations a brighter future.”

Dance also criticised the broader failings of the planning system and the lack of ambition in tackling Britain’s housing crisis.

“It is clear that Britain is in a housing crisis, but this announcement does nothing to address the root problem—a desperate lack of social housing. The Government must recognise that empowering communities is the most effective way to deliver the homes and services we urgently need.”

Adam Dance’s comments underline growing frustration with a planning system that too often prioritises developer interests over the needs of local people. He reiterated his call for housing that is both affordable and supported by critical local infrastructure, urging the Government to shift its approach and put communities at the heart of decision-making.