GovWire

Minister of State, Matthew Pennycook MP, has written to us highlighting the importance of up-to-date local plans for sustainable decisions about our cities, towns, and countryside.

The Minister recognises our crucial role in examining these plans to ensure they are legally compliant and sound. However, he also notes that the length of examinations has been increasing, and this needs to change.

Going forward, pragmatism during local plan examinations should only be used where a plan is likely to be found sound with limited additional work. Any pauses for additional work should usually take no more than six months overall.

This new approach applies to all plans with immediate effect. We will continue to support local authorities through Advisory Visits to ensure effective preparation for the examination process.