Local plan evidence

The local plan is the foundation of planning decisions for a local authority, and is informed by a range of assessments and studies. Our robust reports and supporting documents help ensure local plan developments are best for people, planet and nature. 

Our detailed methodology uses scalable geoprocessing models to assess hundreds of datasets. Our robust outputs enable local authorities to determine potential growth areas for housing and other development.  

We assess the contribution of existing Green Belt, often in the context of sustainability goals or housing needs. Our work considers the potential harm of releasing it, and how it can be enhanced: to ensure resilience to climate change, for benefits to biodiversity and to improve health and wellbeing.

We identify the infrastructure requirements of an area to help councils deliver sustainable growth. The Plan sets out what is needed, when, and where, and includes social, physical and green infrastructure. It is an important tool in the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), ensuring infrastructure is in place to support new development.