The Planning Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for 28 January 2026 was set to discuss the implications of the new draft National Planning Policy Framework and Ealing's approach to climate resilience. The committee was also scheduled to review the minutes from a previous meeting.

The New Draft National Planning Policy Framework

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the new draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published in December 2025. This framework outlines the government's proposed planning policies for England, covering both plan-making and decision-making processes. The draft NPPF aims to make national planning policy more accessible, establish a comprehensive suite of national policies, and make policy more rules-based and certain.

The draft NPPF proposes significant reforms, including a permanent presumption in favour of suitably located development, measures to build homes around stations, drive urban densification, secure a diverse mix of homes, and support small and medium sites. It also aims to streamline local standards, boost local economies, support critical and growth minerals, embed a vision-led approach to transport, better address climate change, conserve and enhance the natural environment, and take a more positive approach to the use of heritage assets.

The report pack provided detailed information on the proposed changes, including new plan-making policies such as those for Spatial Development Strategies, Local Plans, and Neighbourhood Plans, as well as decision-making policies covering areas like development viability, use of planning conditions, and unauthorised development. The draft NPPF also introduces new chapters on securing clean energy and water, and managing flood risk and coastal change.

Climate Resilience

The committee was also scheduled to receive a briefing on climate resilience in Ealing, focusing on building a more equal borough. The briefing highlighted that the impacts of climate change disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those in low-income communities, older adults, individuals with pre-existing health conditions, and disabled people. The primary effects of climate change in London are identified as heavier rains and severe heatwaves, with Ealing being identified as one of the boroughs most socially vulnerable to high heat. The council's draft climate adaptation and resilience strategy aims to reduce inequality, spotlight actions, identify necessary council actions, and build an evidence base for investment. The committee was asked to note the briefing content and support awareness of the upcoming public consultation on the strategy.