Planning System Set for Overhaul as Government Pushes Digital Tools, Speed, and Sustainability
15 July 2025 — London The latest Chief Planner’s Newsletter, published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, (MHCLG), outlines sweeping changes to England’s planning system, signalling a government drive to modernise, digitise, and accelerate planning processes across the country.
Planning & Infrastructure Bill Gains Momentum
A major legislative development—the Planning and Infrastructure Bill—has now passed its second reading in the House of Commons and is under scrutiny in the House of Lords. The Bill aims to streamline housing and infrastructure delivery, with a particular emphasis on supporting the UK’s Clean Power 2030 ambitions.
Key proposed changes include scrapping the mandatory pre-application consultation for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), potentially reducing delays by up to 12 months. The Bill also seeks to prioritise grid connections for developments that are “ready and needed,” reform biodiversity funding mechanisms, and allocate additional resources to statutory consultees.
Digital Connectivity and AI Tools Introduced
Planners are also being equipped with new digital tools. The Department for Transport (DfT), in partnership with MHCLG, has launched the Connectivity Tool, a free resource for public sector organisations that evaluates access to sustainable transport across different sites. The tool is expected to enhance planning for housing and transport infrastructure.
Another innovation—Extract, an AI-based platform—was unveiled during London Tech Week. The system digitises static geospatial planning data, accelerating the preparation of local plans and applications. Regulatory frameworks to support this technology are expected by the end of the year.
Appeals and Crown Development Processes Updated
The newsletter also highlights steps to expedite planning appeals and clarifies the new Crown Development Route, in force since May 2025. Under this route, nationally significant Crown projects are now handled by the Planning Inspectorate, providing a streamlined alternative to the traditional local authority process. Local authorities retain consultation rights, while the Secretary of State may still "recover" certain applications.
Environmental Standards and Biodiversity Under Review
Two public consultations led by DEFRA are currently open. These review implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain policies and update standing guidance on protecting ancient woodland, with responses due by 18 July. Additionally, new non-statutory Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) standards have been released, prioritising flood risk mitigation, water quality, biodiversity, and long-term maintenance.
Support and Funding for Planners
The government has also confirmed a £500,000 grant to Public Practice to boost its Associate Programme, with the goal of placing 300 built-environment professionals into the public sector by 2026. Meanwhile, the Digital Planning Improvement Fund has opened a new round of applications, offering grants of up to £50,000 to local planning authorities to improve their digital maturity and data capabilities. The next application deadline is 29 July 2025.
Forward Momentum for Planning Reform
Joanna Averley, Chief Planner at MHCLG, emphasised the department’s commitment to enabling “faster, fairer, and greener” planning decisions through innovation and collaboration. The updates come at a critical time as the government seeks to meet housing targets, environmental commitments, and energy security goals.