In addition, the government has published (17 August 2026) an updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). In the new NPPF 2026 the government has introduced clearer national decision-making planning policies that apply everywhere in England. These national policies now deal with many matters which apply consistently across England that were previously set out in local plans. 

Under the new plan-making system the new Local Plan must be simpler, shorter and produced more quickly. It will also be digitally produced and presented and maintained.   

The government requires all local areas to have an up-to-date Local Plan to support growth in a sustainable manner. An up-to-date Local Plan will help us meet the housing need set by the government’s standard method and support economic growth. Without an up-to-date Local Plan and policies there is a risk of unsustainable development that will put pressure on infrastructure and community facilities in the borough.

Accommodating new growth and development is challenging. A Local Plan enables us to carefully plan for and proactively manage development, achieving ‘good growth’, that benefits our existing and future residents and builds on the prosperity of our area. It provides certainty for communities, businesses and developers and ensures that new development and infrastructure come forward in a coordinated way.