In Plain English
AI-generatedMay contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.
The Planning (Consultation) Bill would require planning authorities to run formal public consultations before making planning decisions or adopting local planning policies. It would set out rules for how consultations should work, who must be invited to participate, and how the feedback must be considered. The aim is to make local development decisions more open and give communities a clearer way to have a say.
Key Points
- Introduces mandatory, formal public consultation for planning decisions and local policy documents.
- Sets out who must be consulted, how consultations should be carried out (methods, publicity, timeframes), and how responses are used in decision-making.
- Encourages transparency by requiring authorities to publish how consultation feedback influenced decisions.
Who is affected?
Local residents and community groupsLocal businesses and developers (including landowners)Local authorities and planning departmentsNeighbourhood forums and community organisationsEnvironmental, heritage and other interest groupsHousing associations and organisations affected by planning decisions
Generated 21 February 2026
