Local development documents
Development plan documents are the key documents through which local planning authorities can set out a vision and framework for the future development of the area, engaging with their communities in doing so. Producing these documents should be a shared endeavour – led by the local planning authority but in collaboration with local communities, developers, landowners and other interested parties. The measures in the Act strengthen this plan-led system by ensuring that all local planning authorities in England identify the strategic priorities for the development and use of land in their areas (with guidance to be provided on addressing the housing needs of older people and people with disabilities) in an up-to-date plan. The Act also provides for effective interventions where documents are not in place and seeks to improve the involvement of communities and others in plan-making.