The planning system plays an important role in our lives. Effective land use is vital for the well being of the country. Planning is about delivering what people want: jobs, homes, lively city centres, better transport, and sensitive care for our historic buildings and the countryside.
More information on the national picture
In England there is a three tier structure of guidance and plans covering
national, regional and local planning.
The Government sets out national planning policies on different aspects of
planning and the rules that govern the operation of the system. National
planning policies are set out in Planning Policy Statements (PPS) and
Guidance Notes (PPG), Minerals Planning Policy Statements (MPPS) and
Guidance Notes (MPPG) as well as Circulars and Parliamentary
Statements. These, and a list of current policy guidance can be found
on the CLG website.
The South West Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) reflects national policies
and sets out a broad strategy for new development in the region to
2016 and beyond. Following the Government's reform of the plannning system,
local authorities are now drawing up Local Development Frameworks (LDF).
These reflect and build on national and regional policies, taking into
account local needs and variation.
Government Office role:
- Working to ensure the new RSS reflects the region's needs and
character
- Scrutinising LDFs prepared by local authorities to ensure they have
taken account of national and regional policy guidance
- Supporting local authorities in the preparation of Local Development
Frameworks (LDFs)
- Taking decisions on a wide variety of planning applications
referred to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local
Government which might raise issues of more than local importance, and
advising ministers on the need for intervention ('call-in' the application)
- Promoting best practice and continuous improvement in local
authorities' delivery of their planning service.
