The planning system

The town and country planning system shapes new building all over the country. It can protect the countryside from sprawl. And it gives everyone a chance to have their say.

The system in brief
Why the Government is involved in what happens on your street

• History of the planning system
• How the planning system has evolved over time

Make best use of the planning system

• Overview of the different plans
• Local development frameworks
• Regional spatial strategies

Strategic environmental assessment
Strategic environmental assessment is a new EU directive that examines the environmental impact of a proposed programme or plan - the big processes that can have a big impact on your local environment.

How to enforce planning rules
Good decisons by your council deserve to be upheld. Your can help your council to make sure developers stick to the rules.

Planning applications
Planning applications are at the heart of the planning system. We'll show you how you can respond to them.

• The planning application process
• How to respond to planning applications
• Support for your arguments, when you are responding
• How applications are assessed - and by whom
• Planning appeals process
• Departure applications

Proof the planning system matters
The influence planning has had