development plans
housing studies
applications and appeals
promoting development
sustainable development
urban design
economic growth strategies
participation
sustainability appraisal
viability studies & affordable housing
The challenge of local spatial plans
PPS12 together with the amended regulations introduce a number of changes to the plan making system. These are supported by the Plan Making Manual which provides considerable detail and suggestions for how the process can be taken forward.
The key changes include:
- Requirement to produce a core strategy lasting for at least 15 years and containing a vision, strategic objectives, delivery strategy and robust management and monitoring arrangements. It can also include strategic site allocations.
- Removal of detailed requirements about how to prepare a plan. However, there must be wide and continuous participation with stakeholders, general and specific consultation bodies and also residents and businesses from the outset, using appropriate methods, and be proportionate to the plan being prepared (reg 25).
- A 'sound' plan must be published for a minimum of 6 weeks (reg 27 and 28); there are some minor changes about what and how to publish (reg 24).
- To be 'sound' a plan must be justified, effective and consistent with national policy. This means it should be founded on a robust and credible evidence base and be the most appropriate strategy when considered against the reasonable alternatives. It should also be deliverable, flexible and able to be monitored.
- Removal of requirement to advertise site allocations representations
Our Spatial Plans in Practice research project for CLG helped to inform these changes. For more information about how Baker Associates can help you, please see our Local Development Frameworks page.
To view Baker Associates Planning Magazine article, 'new era for plan-making'
