Synopsis

This research story captures the position of the town planner working within a UK Local Planning Authority (LPA), and their vital role in the regulation of housing for older people; being placed in-between housing providers and consumers, and ‘protecting’ the general public/ public realm. This is a fragmented story inasmuch that it pieces together research episodes and secondary source evidence. The story opens with an account of a planning inquiry where two representatives of a local planning authority – ‘Victor’ and ‘Rachel’ – were observed providing evidence and advancing a case for refusal of planning permission against a retirement housing scheme. Thereafter the author reflects upon a desktop study that examined regional planning policy and guidance in relation to retirement housing. The latter highlights an ongoing ‘identity problem’ with regards to retirement-living products and their passage through the English planning system. Furthermore, the story raises concerns regarding UK government ‘austerity’ measures and limited resources, including an apparent lack of retirement-living expertise within local planning authorities.

Methods

The primary research methods supporting this story are direct observation and a desktop study involving document analysis, as well as personal communications with planning professionals. Direct observation was undertaken at a planning inquiry where a Pink & Knight development was being considered following a local authority’s failure to give notice within the prescribed period for a decision to be determined on a planning application. While the desktop study examined planning policy guidance for three regions of southern England, each representing distinct types of ‘destination’ for migrating retirees: a traditional coastline, an inland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and an attractive city outside the capital. Also included are the views of LPA professionals, captured through direct communications and online documentation, such as publicly accessible committee meeting minutes and reports.

Inquiry

The planning inquiry was held at a city Civic Hall; ‘home turf ‘ for the local authority being challenged. The building’s exterior had an impressive façade – a classical portico with giant Corinthian columns and pediment containing a coat of arms – serving to remind visitors of its civic importance as well as the implicit authority of public officials that meet within its interiors.