Proposed Changes to the Planning System
On the 6th July 2010 the Secretary of State laid before Parliament a statement revoking Regional Strategies with immediate effect and issued guidance (http://www.communities.gov.uk/newsstories/newsroom/1632132) to Local Planning Authorities on how to plan in its absence.
However, following a legal challenge by Cala Homes Ltd it has been held that Regional Strategies remain part of the development plan and it would be unlawful for a local planning authority preparing, or a Planning Inspector examining, development plan documents to have regard to the proposal to abolish Regional Strategies. Furthermore the circumstances under which any material weight can be attached to the Secretary of States' intention to abolish Regional Strategies are very limited indeed.
From a local planning perspective, it is clear that it is the goverments' intention to abolish Regional Strategies and move to a more locally inspired planning system. However, until the necessary legal instruments are enacted to facilitate this, planning decisions must continue to be determined against the development plan, including the Regional Plan, having regard to any material considerations.
Last updated: Mon 9th January, 2012 @ 10:20
