A basic guide to the structure of national planning policy.
The planning system is structured in such a way that planning policy is filtered down through three levels:
National Level
Planning Policy Statements (PPS) set out the Government's policy for different aspects of land use planning in the England. PPS1 considers sustainable development, special planning and encourages community involvement. The prudent use of natural resources is encouraged and the economic, social and environmental impact of new developments is considered. PPS22 views the use of renewable energy in a very positive light and states that planning bodies should be actively promoting the use of renewables.
Regional Level
Regional Spatial Strategies (replacing the Regional Planning Guidance documents) provide a long-term strategy for the sustainable development of a region and reflect and build on national policy. This type of planning policy is locational but not site specific.
Local Level
Local Development Frameworks (replacing the Unitary Development Plans) may include policies that specify that some types of new developments require that a percentage of the expected energy consumption be generated from renewable sources.
