We need to talk about Community Density (2025)

Introduction

‘Community Density’ is a development which is designed for communities, with the spaces, housing types, services and infrastructure that communities need. It’s not defined by scale but creates an opportunity for the perception of high-rise buildings to be high quality placemaking for all.

In simple planning terms, ‘Community Density’ is guided by a local authorities’ development expectations for a site, such as: roof gardens, renewable energy, commonhold, duplex and family apartments, underground parking, commercial and service spaces. If the proposed development includes them all, therefore reflecting community needs, the project will be granted planning permission.

This will ensure that land, especially brownfield, is used to its fullest and placemaking is at the heart of the development process, thus giving local people confidence that projects are delivering for them. It will also give funders and developers the confidence that their project can go ahead on time, without planning opposition and delay.

Contact

NFB Head of Policy & Market Insight, Rico Wojtulewicz is available for interview in conjunction with this written piece.

For further information please contact the NFB press office on 03450 578 160 or email press@builders.org.uk.

NFB is the longest standing and most representative construction trade body representing over 1,000 members with 28,500 employees with a combined turnover of over £8bn (FY 2023). The NFB represents builders, contractors and house builders across England and Wales. Founded in 1896, its members range from the sole traders to large, billion-pound construction companies, with turnover ranging from below £500,000 to £1.1 billion. The NFB provides advice, training, and business services to ensure members stay up to date. The NFB campaigns on the issues that affect the construction industry such as procurement, skills, sustainability, and funding. It represents the industry to government and industry forums and is an active media commentator and policy influencer.