In conclusion, the need for sustainable development must remain at the forefront of planning and delivering housing targets. The continuous reliance on the tilted balance to compensate for failures in local development plans and housing supply targets is not only a gross lapse in logic but also a recipe for long-term environmental and community harm. The pressures faced by local authorities, as highlighted by Cllr Richard Millard, underscore the critical importance of thorough environmental assessments and integrated planning. Without these, the risk of unsustainable developments, especially in vulnerable rural and village areas, becomes alarmingly high. Therefore, it is imperative that planning authorities prioritise comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments and adopt a balanced approach that safeguards our environment and communities for future generations. Sustainable development is not just a goal but a necessary foundation for fostering resilient, thriving communities that can withstand the pressures of growth and change.