Purpose

The purpose of
this decision is to agree a response to the Proposed reforms to the
National Planning Policy Framework and other changes to the
planning system consultation.
 
The Government
have launched a consultation on proposed reforms to the National
Planning Policy Framework and other changes to the planning system.
The Consultation runs until 10 March. The consultation document
explores the issues and reasons behind proposed changes, along with
225 consultation questions. This is accompanied by a draft version
of a new National Planning Policy Framework.
 
For further information, a
report on the consultation was presented to the Joint Planning
Advisory Group on 23 February and can be viewed here:

Agenda for Joint Planning Advisory Group on Monday,
23 February 2026, 5.30 p.m.
 

Content

That the Lead Cabinet Member
for Planning agreed:
a.     
to
submit the response to the consultation on the Proposed
reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework and other changes
to the planning system as set out in Appendix 1.
b.     
that delegated
authority is given to the Joint Director for Planning to
agree any minor amendments to the
response in order to finalise the joint
response.

Reasons for the decision

To
provide feedback on the consultation reflecting issues relevant to
Greater Cambridge.

Alternative options considered

Option
1: To not respond to the consultation.
 
Reason
for Rejection: if no response is made MHCLG would not be made aware
of the Councils’ views on the proposed changes to national
planning policy.