National planning policy

The National Planning Policy Framework sets out the Government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. It provides a framework within which local people and their accountable councils can produce their own distinctive local and neighbourhood plans, which reflect the needs and priorities of their communities. Please see the National Planning Policy Framework website for further information.

Planning law requires that applications for planning permission must be determined in accordance with the development plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise.

The National Planning Policy Framework must be taken into account in the preparation of local and neighbourhood plans, and is a material consideration in planning decisions. Planning policies and decisions must reflect and promote relevant EU obligations and statutory requirements.

Further information on national planning policy is also available via the Planning Portal website.