The Government published the National Planning Policy Framework for consultation on the 25 July 2011.  The consultation was open to all and ran until 17 October 2011.

The Government aims to simplify the planning process, reducing the volume of National Planning Policy from some 1000 pages which they consider has become far too complex and inaccessible.  The Coalition Government has committed to produce one clear, tightly focused document, setting out national priorities only where necessary to do so.  This being a key part of the proposed reforms aimed at getting the planning system right for current and future generations and to promote sustainable growth.

The Government encouraged all to read and comment on the draft National Planning Policy Framework and submit comments by the 17 October.  The Council has carefully considered the document and prepared comments which can be viewed below.

Read the Council response to the draft National Planning Policy Framework consultation.

Please see the Communities and Local Government website for full details of the draft National Policy Framework.

A further consultation was also published on the Local Planning Regulations, the closing date for this being the 7 October 2011.  This sort views on the Governments proposed new regulations governing the process by which local councils prepare their development plan and associated documents.  The Council has again contributed to this consultation by submitting comments, which can be viewed below.

Read the Council response to the Local Planning Regulations consultation.

Please see the Communities and Local Government website for full details of the Local Planning Regulations consultation.