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Welsh Parliament
Oral evidence session: Counsel General and Minister for Delivery - 3 November 2025

Representatives of the Welsh Government who have fore fronted the creation of the Planning (Wales) Bill and its implementation met with the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee on 3 November 2025.

This session reinforced that the Bill is not a reform, but a technical consolidation designed to modernise planning law making it clearer, more accessible, and bilingual without changing its legal effect.

Claire Fife, Dr James George, Neil Hemington and Dion Thomas represented the Welsh Government for this hearing.

Modernisation and Terminology

The change from 'material considerations' to 'relevant considerations' was defended as a modernisation supported by Supreme Court precedent. While some stakeholders have raised concerns, the committee clarified that this update does not alter the substance of planning law. The main argument appears to be that the term 'material' is unclear when translated into Welsh and the term 'relevant' is clearer and holds the same value for both English and Welsh.

 

Implementation and Guidance

To support practitioners within planning in Wales and other stakeholders, the committee outlined key measures to ensure effective and best implementation:

  • The Development Management Manual will be updated within the 18-month implementation period.
  • Webinars, templates, and guidance will be provided to aid transition.
  • Professional development will be prioritised for those adapting to the new code. 
  • Welsh Government may assist in updating planning textbooks.

 

Legislative Scope and Priorities

The representatives, as previously mentioned, confirmed that subordinate legislation will remain in force and be updated gradually. Tree regulations and Development Management Procedure Orders were mentioned as prioritises for early implementation. Certain provisions that were queried for their exclusion, for example the Habitats Regulations, were deemed to be outside the scope of planning law consolidation.

 

Role of POSW

The committee reaffirmed the role of POSW and other stakeholder groups in shaping and supporting implementation. It was also noted that it is important to make sure that the members of POSW have best guidance and support during the implementation of the Bill.

 

Looking ahead

The Government's commitment to clarity and modernisation of the planning law in Wales is a great step to making the most efficient system possible for both Welsh and English speaking practitioners. The understanding that correct implementation has been carefully considered is great news for the next stages of the Bill's progression.