Please see the planning policies and regulations section on our website.
The development plan is at the heart of the planning system, with a requirement set in law that planning decisions must be taken in line with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise.
The development plan sets out a vision and a framework for the future development of an area, addressing needs and opportunities in relation to housing, the economy, community facilities and infrastructure – as well as a basis for conserving and enhancing the natural and historic environment, mitigating and adapting to climate change, and achieving well designed places.
The Local Planning Authority will assess application proposals against the requirements of the Development Plan, as well as other material planning considerations. It is therefore important that any application proposals have considered the requirements of relevant policies, as conflict with these policies will likely result in a planning refusal.
It is therefore strongly recommended that to fully understand the policies and guidance of the Development Plan, pre-application advice is sought from the Local Planning Authority prior to an application being made.