In September 2025, the Government updated its Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) on flood risk. These changes clarify how the Sequential Test — the process for steering new development to the areas of lowest flood risk — should be applied.

Town and Parish Councils: Have you considered planning in your 2026/2027 budget? After a turbulent planning year, does your Council have the right resources available to support them through more planning changes? How can you prepare for the future now?

Importantly, this appeal was determined as the Stoke Poges Neighbourhood Plan (with its Design Code) was being formally made by Buckinghamshire Council. We made clear this meant that the Plan carried full weight and the Inspector specifically referenced the conflicts with its policies. This is another example of the strength in neighbourhood plans and local design codes in shaping planning outcomes.

What is a Grey Belt Study? how does it work and how might it help your area?