Development plan document

A local development framework must include development plan documents (DPDs), which outline the key development goals of the local development framework. Development plan documents taken together are broadly equivalent to the old-style local plans.

Compulsory development plan documents

• Core strategy document
• Site-specific allocations
• Adopted proposals map

Optional development plan documents

• Area action plans
• Supplementary planning documents.

Development plan documents are subject to rigorous procedures of community involvement, consultation and independent examination. Once adopted, development control decisions must be made in accordance with the DPDs unless material considerations indicate otherwise.

DPDs must be examined with a sustainability appraisal to ensure economic, environmental and social effects of the plan are in line with sustainable development targets.

See also

• Local development documents