Planning & Land

Planning updates

The new NPPF is in force.

The National Planning Policy Framework published on 17 August 2026 replaces the December 2024 version and applies to decisions now. Here is what changed, with links to the official documents.

Read the NPPF on GOV.UK ↗
Published
17 Aug 2026
Replaces
Dec 2024
Coded policies
About 130
National DM policies
About 79

What changed, in brief

A rulebook, not guidance

Numbered National Development Management Policies apply directly to applications. Local policies that conflict with them should carry less weight.

Grey Belt refined

A tidier Grey Belt definition and a lower bar for Green Belt land around well-connected stations. The golden rules on affordable housing and infrastructure remain.

Housing delivery

New Housing Delivery Test results, with tougher consequences for councils that fall short. The tilted balance is easier to reach in under-delivering areas.

Energy and data centres

A new chapter gives more weight to renewables, grid infrastructure and digital infrastructure, including data centres.

Transport and parking

Less emphasis on highway capacity, more on place-making. Parking standards are more flexible on well-connected sites.

Local plans in transition

Annex A sets out how existing plans are treated. Expect a mixed picture into 2027 while each council catches up.

Worth re-checking now

If a site was shelved or refused under the 2024 framework or before, the new policies may change the answer for you. Send us the address and we will take a first look, at no cost to you, and tell you what your revised chances are like.

Ask about your site
  • Green Belt land near a station that was ruled out before
  • The council's Housing Delivery Test result before an appeal
  • Parking numbers on well-connected sites
  • Statements and appeal cases written before 17 August 2026

Official documents and recent updates

AUG 2026 · GOV.UKNational Planning Policy Framework ↗The current framework in full GOV.UKHousing Delivery Test results ↗How each council is performing GOV.UKPlanning Practice Guidance ↗Revised guidance still to follow GOV.UKBiodiversity net gain ↗The 10% rule and small sites APR 2026 · GOV.UKPlanning fees from 1 April 2026 ↗Up 3.8%, see our fees page PLANNING INSPECTORATEAppeal a planning decision ↗Deadlines and how to appeal