National Context
Since the launch of SAGP the issues and the challenges at the national level have continued to increase and the environment is under substantial pressure from all sides. Of particular relevance is the reform of the planning system and changes to local governance, the government’s push for more housing and economic growth, the shrinking of the public sector and the general impact of austerity budgets.
Localism & reform of the planning system
The
Localism Act, 2011 changed the powers of local government in England with the aim of devolving decision-making from central government and placing much greater control in the hands of local communities.
The planning system was streamlined in 2012 with the publication of the
National Planning Policy Framework or NPPF introduced to encourage sustainable development and growth and setting out the Government’s planning policies for England. It provides a framework within which local people and their accountable councils can produce their own distinctive local and neighbourhood plans to reflect the needs and priorities of their communities.