Joanna Averley [Photo MHCLG]
Chief Planning Officer’s newsletter
The latest newsletter by Chief Planner of MHCLG, Joanna Averley, was published to local authorities’ planning officers on 18th August 2026.
It draws attention to
- the publication of the new National Planning Policy Framework, including the main changes following consultation as well as the government’s response to the consultation;
- reforms to the statutory consultee system, including changes to the roles and requirements of statutory consultees;
- publication of the 2024 and 2025 Housing Delivery Test results, alongside an updated Rule Book;
- new digital planning tools and guidance, including the rollout of Extract to all local planning authorities and new guidance on using digital tools for site identification and assessment;
- new Sustainable Drainage Systems resources, including national SuDS Strategy Templates and new training for planners; and
- upcoming Green Infrastructure webinars, covering new evidence, mapping tools and practical support for planners and other practitioners.
All Tags
Youth unemployment
Centre for London has published a report on London’s high youth unemployment figures. One in four young Londoners are unemployed.
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Planning agreements for medium-sized sites
The Government has launched a consultation on a set of standard planning agreements for medium-sized housing sites. The proposals are ...
Protection for Public Green Space
The Government will review the fragmented and outdated nature of current legislative protections for public recreational green spaces, assess how ...
Garden Annexe, Caravan, or Mobile Home?
Tim Catchpole of the Mortlake and East Sheen Society writes…
Our Society has had a recent experience which we would like to share with other London Forum members who may [more…]
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