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The Localism Bill

The Bill provides the legislative basis for a proposed shift of power from central Government to local communities.

The specific reforms are wide-ranging but a number relate to planning:

The abolishment of Regional Strategies;
Changes to the Community Infrastructure Levy;
Inspectors will only be able to suggest changes to Local Plans;
Right for Communities to prepare Neighbourhood Plans;
Community Right to Build without the need for permission;
Local Authorities and public bodies are duty bound to cooperate with each other;
New requirements for developers to consult local communities before submitting planning applications for very large developments;
Proposals in the bill will tackle abuses of the planning system;
The Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) is replaced with a fast-track process for major infrastructure projects.