National planning changes to local plans
The new plan-making system is based on changes to current policy and legislation. They include:
- a revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), consulted on from December 2025 to March 2026
- new regulations introduced through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is reviewing consultation responses and aims to publish the final NPPF in summer 2026. The draft places more emphasis on housing delivery and introduces National Development Management Policies (NDMPs).
The regulations set out mandatory requirements, including publishing a plan timetable and completing Gateway assessments. MHCLG has also published guidance called ‘Create or update a local plan using the new system’ (CULP).
While the regulations came into effect on 25 March 2026, the CULP guidance is largely in draft form, with many sections still to be published.
Woking is one of the first areas to use the new plan-making system. Some requirements and timings are still unclear, but the overall approach is clear.
We believe progressing with the new local plan is achievable. We will update project plans and delivery tools as new guidance is published.