Navigating Proposed Changes to the Planning System

On 8th November, DAC had the privilege of speaking alongside Derek Stebbing at the RTPI East of England Planning Law Conference in Cambridge. The discussion revolved around the rapidly evolving landscape of the English planning system and the potential implications of proposed changes on local plan production.

While change is necessary to address housing shortages and planning challenges, it’s clear that the reforms present both opportunities and risks. Below, we’ve summarised some key insights shared during the conference.

Key Considerations for Local Planning Authorities (LPAs):

1. Revisions to the Standard Method

Adjustments to the standard method will increase housing targets for most local planning authorities significantly. Without strategic planning frameworks in place, many LPAs will struggle to meet these heightened requirements effectively.

2. Risk of Plan-Making Paralysis

The complexity of local plan production may deepen, increasing the risk of plan-making paralysis. Simplifying processes will be critical to ensuring progress.

3. Speculative vs. Plan-Led Development

While the proposed reforms aim to boost housing supply, much of the resulting growth may come through speculative development – at least in the short-term. This approach, while potentially accelerating delivery, could undermine the principles of joined-up, community-focused planning.

4. Impacts of the 'Tilted Balance'

The broader application of the ‘tilted balance’ could lead to more planning by appeal. This not only diverts resources from plan-making but can also create uncertainty for communities and developers alike.

5. Strategic Planning Reintroduced

The reintroduction of strategic planning is a welcome step forward. However, questions remain about the geographic scope, resourcing, and alignment of strategic plans with local plans. These need to be clarified promptly if the plan-led system is to be maintained

6. Guidance on Green Belt Reviews

Additional guidance is essential to support LPAs in conducting Green Belt reviews. These reviews should ideally occur within a strategic planning context to ensure balanced and sustainable decisions.

7. Addressing Grey Belt Land

There is a lack of clarity around how development on grey belt land—land released outside the plan-making system—will be managed to avoid prejudicing local plans and ensuring genuine sustainability.

8. Strengthening Prematurity in the NPPF

Enhancing the concept of ‘prematurity’ within the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) could help mitigate the risks associated with speculative development and the tilted balance.

Looking Ahead

The Government faces an unenviable task in overhauling the planning system, particularly under tight time pressures. While the reforms offer potential to address long-standing issues, they also introduce challenges that require careful management. The next steps will be pivotal in shaping the future of planning in England. We will be closely monitoring developments and engaging with stakeholders to ensure our clients and communities navigate these changes effectively. Stay tuned as we continue to provide updates and insights into the evolving planning landscape.

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How we can help

DAC Planning has extensive experience and understanding of plan making, and provides dedicated support to local authorities nationally.

For a discussion on how we can assist you, please get in touch with the team:

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This information is for general informative purposes only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, DAC Planning accepts no liability whatsoever for any direct or consequential loss arising from its use.