The planning landscape in England is evolving and the new regulations for preparing local plans promise a faster, simpler, more accessible process. The government has recently published guidance to support this shift, reflecting reforms under the Levelling‑Up and Regeneration Act 2023 and related changes geared towards speeding up plan-making. A key feature of the new system is a clear expectation on local planning authorities to prepare and adopt local plans within a roughly

England is taking important steps towards nature recovery, with the government making legally-binding commitments to halt the decline and promote the restoration of our natural environments. These efforts are part of a broader movement to protect and rejuvenate the country's wildlife and landscapes. The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has appointed 48 responsible authorities to lead on preparing a local nature recovery strategy (LNRS) for their area

The UK government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan highlights a bold vision for positioning the nation as a global leader in artificial intelligence. A key enabler of this vision is through AI in planning,  ensuring that the planning system keeps pace with the rapid development and adoption of AI technologies. Streamlining AI Infrastructure Through Planning Reform Central to these reforms are initiatives designed to simplify the establishment of AI infrastructure. One major st

The “Accelerating Housing Delivery” practice note  outlines strategies to address London’s urgent housing needs. It emphasises affordable housing, social rent and intermediate housing for key workers and middle-income earners. It is now a material consideration  in determining planning applications and aligns with the London Plan and the Mayor’s Housing Strategy. Key Highlights: Context: The Policy Push Behind Accelerating Housing Delivery The guidance responds to London's gr

The English Devolution White Paper , published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, marks a significant shift in how planning is governed across the country. By offering new powers to local authorities and regional leaders, it sets out a  bold framework with planning and housing at its core, promising to revolutionise town planning across England. Spatial Development Strategies Under the English Devolution White Paper The White Paper mandates all area

The UK government has announced a major NPPF update   aimed at delivering 1.5 million new homes during the current Parliament. Key measures include mandatory housing targets for local councils, with a focus on high-growth potential areas with acute housing affordability issues. Annual targets are set at 370,000 homes, with councils required to update or create local plans within 12 weeks or face government intervention. Brownfield First: Land Use Under the NPPF Update A redef