National Planning Policy Framework
The revised National Planning Policy Framework is shaping local plans and raising concerns over local democratic control.
Lambeth Council is currently seeking public health input for its Local Plan, which must reflect the revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) that explicitly requires plans to promote good health, as reported in September 2026. Wandsworth Council also discussed recent changes to national planning policy in August 2026.
Barnet councillors voiced strong opposition in July 2026 to government reforms, including changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, arguing they diminish local democratic control over planning decisions and limit public consultation.
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is the UK government's planning policy for England, last updated in August 2026. Waltham Forest Council updated its planning application requirements in September 2025, following an NPPF mandate for local authorities to review their information requirements every two years.
Key facts
- The revised National Planning Policy Framework explicitly requires plans to identify opportunities to promote good health and prevent ill health. Source
- Barnet councillors debated a motion expressing concern over changes to the National Planning Policy Framework in July 2026. Source
- Waltham Forest Council adopted its updated Local Validation Requirements List in September 2025. Source
- The National Planning Policy Framework requires local planning authorities to review their information requirements at least every two years. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.