To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether local authorities may opt out of the proposed national minimum density target of 30 dwellings per hectare outlined in the new version of PPS3. (115041)

Planning Policy Statement 3 makes clear that local authorities should set their own density targets. Local authorities may decide, based on the particular circumstances of their area, or a part or parts of it, to plan for, or agree to, densities different from the national indicative minimum 30 dwellings per hectare in Planning Policy Statement 3 (PPS3). For example, higher densities may be more appropriate in town centres, and lower densities in rural villages or areas of historical importance.