Government Unveils New Local Planning System to Boost Housing Development
On 27 November 2025, Matthew Pennycook, the Minister for Housing and Planning, shared crucial information about a new local planning system set to come into effect at the start of 2026. This initiative is part of the broader reforms introduced by the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023, which aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of local plan development in England.
Importance of the Reforms
Currently, less than a third of local planning authorities possess updated local plans, a situation that has impeded housing development across the country. The new framework is designed to support the government’s pledge to construct 1.5 million homes during this parliamentary term by establishing a more streamlined and predictable planning system.
Key Changes Introduced
The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has outlined several significant changes in its new planning system:
- A comprehensive 30-month timeline for the local plan process, establishing a clear pathway for creating and approving plans.
- A three-tiered gateway approach featuring distinct checkpoints: Gateway 1 focuses on scope and strategic priorities, Gateway 2 covers the draft plan, and Gateway 3 assesses readiness for examination.
- Emphasis on digital solutions, including standardised data formats and user-friendly digital tools.
- Provision of dedicated resources and guidance to assist local plan-makers in adapting to the new framework.
Availability of New Guidance
MHCLG has released initial guidance aimed at local authority planners, which is now accessible online under the “Create and Update a Local Plan” initiative. This guidance will be augmented by additional tools and services throughout 2026 to facilitate the transition.
The Planning Inspectorate is responsible for overseeing the local plan development from Gateway 2 onwards. A new Procedure Guide will be published shortly, offering a high-level overview of the process along with practical advice about the Inspectorate’s involvement.
Supporting Tools and Templates
In addition to the new guidelines, the Planning Advisory Service will provide further practical resources and templates designed to assist planners in their efforts to develop local plans.
Transition to the New System
To ensure a smooth shift to the new system, there will be a transitional period throughout 2026 where both the existing and new frameworks will operate concurrently. Local planning authorities can continue to submit plans under the current system until the end of 2026.
Importantly, the new local planning framework will eliminate the Duty to Cooperate requirement, which will also be rescinded for plans prepared under the existing system. This strategic change aims to accelerate the adoption of local plans, thereby facilitating more rapid housing development.
The Role of the Planning Inspectorate
The Planning Inspectorate’s function is to carry out an independent evaluation of local plans, assessing their legal compliance and alignment with national policy. This scrutiny is crucial for ensuring that local communities have solid planning frameworks that effectively govern development and growth.
In anticipation of increased demand, the Inspectorate is expanding its local plans inspector workforce and is dedicated to assisting local authorities and planning professionals through the transition to the new planning system.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-local-plan-system-launching-early-2026-latest-update
