November was a busy month for updates as part of the planning reform, with signs of more updates to come, including a new draft NPPF expected to land in December.
Planning news:
The Autumn budget contained some news for good news for the planning system including increased funding for recruitment,
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill left the House of Lords and amendment stage and started the route to Royal Assent and will shortly become law. One of the most contentious parts was the nature restoration fund, which is now limited to impacts for water and air quality.
A new Draft NPPF will be released shortly, which will promote development around train stations.
The Secretary of State has announced plans to call in applications of 150 homes or more that are recommended for refusal.
The consultation process has begun on the role of statutory consultees, with the Theatre Trust, Garden Trust, and Sports England potentially losing statutory status. Consultation ends 13th January 2026.
Guidance has been published to clarify the new Local Plan making process. The new process will see the Duty to Cooperate to be removed from plan making. Plans will be subject to 3 gateway checkpoints, with an aim to achieve adoption within 30-months, and there will be a greater use of digital and accessible tools. The new system will be launched in 2026.
Other things we’ve enjoyed this month:
WEA Planning celebrated our Work Xmas Party a little early this year, before Phil heads off for paternity leave next month. You will all be glad to know that we made it out of the Escape Room in time for work the following day.
