The Government has introduced transitional arrangements alongside the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF 2024). The arrangements set deadlines for when the Council can continue with their existing Local Plans and when they must begin a new Local Plan. Local authorities that have not published a Regulation 19 Local Plan by 12th of March 2025 must prepare a new Local Plan using the updated national policies and housing numbers. Councils whose housing requirement is more than 20% below their new Local Housing Need figure must also begin a new Local Plan. For further information, please see the Government's guidance on the rollout of the new Local Plan-making system available here.

The process is structured into clear stages:

Preparation (1-23 months): Authorities develop the plan’s vision and spatial strategy, build the evidence base, engage with stakeholders and complete mandatory consultations.

Submission for Examination (24-29 months): The drafted plan is finalised and formally submitted for independent examination.

Adoption (30-31 months): The local authority prepares to adopt the plan and publishes the final policies map.

Further information is available on our website in the Local Plan Stages section, which outlines the plan-making process.