Presumption in favour of sustainable development

Government have produced a draft of their proposed presumption in favour of sustainable development.

There is a presumption in favour of sustainable development at the heart of the planning system, which should be central to the approach taken to both plan-making and decision-taking. Local planning authorities should plan positively for new development, and approve all individual proposals wherever possible.

Local planning authorities should:

Prepare local plans on the basis that objectively assessed development needs should be met, and with sufficient flexibility to respond to rapid shifts in demand or other economic changes

Approve development proposals that accord with statutory plans without delay and

Grant permission where the plan is absent, silent, indeterminate or where relevant policies are out of date

All of these policies should apply unless the adverse impacts of allowing development would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policy objectives in the National Planning Policy Framework taken as a whole.

The full statement from DCLG can be read here. If you want to discuss how this affects you give us a call on 01282 872570, or simply email your question to Mick or Claire. We will be happy to discuss your needs and give free, initial advice.

©Kirkwells Town Planners and Sustainable Development Consultants based at the Lancashire Digital Technology Centre in Burnley www.kirkwells.co.uk

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