URL: https://democracy.westlancs.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=576

Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: This report provides an overview of the Government’s consultation on the proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and associated changes to the wider planning system, published on 16 December 2025. The consultation, which runs until 10 March 2026, seeks views on a revised NPPF aimed at creating a clearer, more consistent and more rules-based planning framework. It includes significant structural changes separating plan-making and national decision-making policies, updates to housing delivery, sustainable development, climate change policy, and the role of local plans. The consultation also addresses related areas such as data centres and on-site energy generation, standardised viability inputs, and site threshold reforms. The report summarises the key proposals and sets out their potential implications for the Council’s planning functions.

Content: Consideration was given to the report of the Assistant Director of Planning & Regulatory Services, as contained on pages 315 to 666 of the Book of Reports, which presented a summary of the Government’s consultation on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework, including the key themes and implications for West Lancashire, and sought approval of the Council’s response.   The Assistant Director Planning & Regulatory Services gave an undertaking to consider concerns raised by members and make any amendments, as may be necessary, in accordance with the delegated authority.   RESOLVED:   That the Assistant Director of Planning and Regulatory Services, in consultation with the Lead Member for Planning and Community Safety, be given delegated authority to respond to the Government consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework as provided at Appendix A to this report prior to the deadline of 10 March 2026, making minor / inconsequential amendments, and concerns raised, as may be necessary.

Date of Decision: February 26, 2026