Local Plan Reform in the NPPF: The Future of Planning Policy
The Government has published its latest consultation on the future of planning policy and plan-making. The consultation document is titled “Proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework and other changes to the planning system”, which was published on 30th July 2024.
These proposals could significantly impact how local planning authorities (LPAs) prepare and implement their local plans.
Let's break down the key points and their potential implications.
Drive Towards Universal Local Plan Coverage
The Government's primary objective is clear: drive local plans to adoption as quickly as possible to achieve universal plan coverage across England.
This push is aligned with the ambitious goal of delivering 1.5 million homes.
Key Takeaway for LPAs:
Don't pause or delay plan preparation, and don’t wait for the new system.
Having an up-to-date plan will put local planning authorities’ in the best position to steer growth in their area.
Local Plan Transitional Arrangements
The consultation outlines transitional arrangements for plans at different stages of preparation:
Plans at examination: Will continue under the version of the NPPF they were submitted under.
Plans at Regulation 19 stage: Can proceed under the current NPPF if the gap between Local Housing Need (LHN) and proposed requirement is less than 200 dwellings per annum.
Plans at earlier stages: Should be prepared against the revised NPPF.
Implications:
LPAs with advanced plans may need to revise them if there's a significant gap between LHN and proposed housing requirements.
The government promises funding support for authorities needing to undertake additional work.
Timeline for New Plan-Making System
The new plan-making system is expected to be implemented from summer or autumn 2025.
Plans not subject to transitional arrangements must be submitted for examination under the existing system by December 2026.
What This Means:
LPAs have more time to reflect on the revised NPPF and prepare robust plans.
It's crucial to start planning for the transition to the new system now.
Future Changes to the NPPF
The consultation hints at future changes to make national policy more accessible and user-friendly:
Potential creation of a web-based set of national policies.
Integration of waste and traveller site policies into the main NPPF or National Development Management Policies.
Potential Impact:
More streamlined and accessible national policies could simplify plan-making and decision-making processes.
LPAs should prepare for potential changes in how they access and implement national policy.
Final Thoughts on the Proposed Reforms to Local Plans
These proposals represent a significant shift in how local plans will be prepared and implemented.
While they aim to accelerate plan adoption and housing delivery, they also present challenges for LPAs, particularly those that may need to revise advanced plans.
Key actions for LPAs:
Continue progressing the local plan without delay.
Assess the plan's status against the proposed transitional arrangements.
Start planning for the transition to the new system in 2025.
Stay informed about future changes to the NPPF and national policy presentation.
As always, early engagement with the new policies and proactive planning will be crucial for navigating these changes successfully.
We'll be monitoring the outcomes of this consultation closely and advising our clients on the best strategies moving forward.
If you have a site suitable for development and could form a potential site allocation, contact our planners today to see how we could represent you through the Local Plan process.
