We must rebuild trust in our developers

Just 2% of the general public trust developers and only 7% trust local authorities when it comes to planning for large-scale development, according to a survey of more than 2,000 people by Grosvenor Britain & Ireland. Grosvenor’s research, undertaken following the refusal of its plans to deliver a £500m build-to-rent scheme in Bermondsey, SE1, earlier this year, shows that public trust in the planning system is almost non-existent, with a perception that developers care only about making or saving money being cited as the major reason for the lack of trust. The results come just a week after the British Property Federation found that only 27% of the general public had a favourable view of the property sector. Grosvenor Britain & Ireland chief executive Craig McWilliam said: “These findings are a significant wake-up call to all involved in large-scale development – the public doesn’t trust developers or local authorities to act in their best interests. “Together with others, we must accept our responsibility, act to rebuild trust and back local government leaders shaping developments for the communities they serve.” Action stations The landed estate is now calling on its peers and public leaders to take action to rebuild trust. As a first step, Grosvenor has established a new set of commitments across its business that it hopes will reduce the level of distrust among the general public. The firm has promised to: Make it easier for the public to weigh the value and costs created by a development. To do this, Grosvenor said it will use plain English, rather than real estate jargon, to detail the anticipated social and environmental benefits created as a result of the development and will set out the expected financial risks and returns to the company. Increase transparency in the consultation, decision-making and design process for development. This will entail the scheme being scrutinised by an independent and objective commentator throughout the development process. Help communities better understand how to get involved and influence developments. Grosvenor, which is already utilising Built-ID’s Give-My-View inclusive engagement tool, said it would develop a gold standard for consultation against which business can be held accountable by councils and local communities. U+I made a similar pledge earlier this year, appointing Sadie Morgan – a founding director of Stirling Prize-winning architecture practice dRMM – as an independent non-executive director to hold the board to account for the commitments it has made on community engagement. Together with others, we must accept our responsibility, act to rebuild trust and back local government leaders shaping developments for the communities they serve McWilliam said: “We are committed to meeting the call for greater transparency and openness from developers. The system will work better for us all when more people are engaged in and understand the process and factors involved in the planning process. “Our commitments are just the starting point. Working with others in our industry, the public sector and civic organisations, we want to generate real change that addresses the drivers of mistrust.” To send feedback, e-mail samantha.mcclary@egi.co.uk or tweet @samanthamcclary or @estatesgazette