The policy section provides access to the chief planning legislation produced by the Government as well as other planning related documents, reports and statistics.
Please note that the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) website has been superseded by Gov.uk.
While we have updated many links, and redirects are also in place, there may be some disruption to links from the Planning Portal to DCLG while the migration of content takes place.
Access the latest planning policy, circulars and guidance documents as well as consultations and letters to chief planning officers
The National Planning Policy Framework was published on 27 March 2012. This is a key part of Government reforms to make the planning system less complex and more accessible, to protect the environment and to promote sustainable growth.
The Government is committed to a radical reform of the planning agenda giving new powers to local councils, communities, neighbourhoods and individuals.
Details of current English planning policy documents including Planning Policy Statements, Good Practice Guides and circulars
Details of archived English planning policy documents including Planning Policy Statements, Good Practice Guides and circulars
Planning policy is supported by legislation, this mainly takes the form of Acts of Parliament and Statutory Instruments.
