Planning for a better Wales

The Welsh Government’s Planning Bill has been passed by the National Assembly for Wales and, subject to Royal Assent, will soon become law.

The Bill provides a modern, flexible and streamlined planning framework, improving resilience and encouraging consistent, timely decision making whilst engaging with local communities at the earliest possible opportunity.

The Minister for Natural Resources, Carl Sargeant said:

“I’m delighted that this Bill has been approved by the National Assembly and that the people of Wales can soon look forward to a world class, more streamlined planning system which is fit for modern Wales.

“The Bill has always had fairness and positivity at its core, and through listening to, and working with, stakeholders and the Environment and Sustainability Committee today’s Bill strikes a delicate balance between enabling development, supporting the economy and supporting our communities.”

Cllr Andrew Morgan, WLGA spokesperson for planning said:

“Local planning authorities in Wales work hard to ensure Wales’ planning system works effectively for businesses, communities and for our environment.  Local councils in Wales will play a vital role in the implementation of many elements of the new Planning Bill, and in delivering on the bills ambitions for planning reform. We look forward to working with Welsh Government on implementing the reform process, which must be delivered in a way that recognises the significant financial challenges currently faced by local planning authorities and local government in Wales as a whole.  It is vital that the right level of support is provided and that we all work to ensure that there is capacity in the system to deliver these reforms effectively.”