Best Plan Winner
The Greater Norwich Local Plan, submitted by The Greater Norwich Development Partnership (Broadland District Council, Norwich City Council, South Norfolk Council) 
Adopted in March 2024, the Greater Norwich Local Plan (GNLP) is the Strategy and Sites Local Plan for Broadland, Norwich and South Norfolk. The plan was produced by the Greater Norwich Development Partnership (GNDP). The GNDP has worked together for two decades, providing an effective partnership for planning and delivering growth. Its first strategic plan, the Joint Core Strategy, was adopted in 2011. Given that government policy now requires strategic planning, the GNLP is an excellent example of sub-regional plan-making. The strategy intrinsically links housing delivery to low-carbon economic growth, environmental protection and enhancement, infrastructure provision and addressing climate change.
Judges‘ comment: “Our judging panel noted this initiative represents an impressive demonstration of plan-making among multiple authorities. Achieving a local plan for a single authority is commendable, but the collaboration seen here elevates the effort to new heights. The significant engagement from all parties involved not only showcases a hugely impressive achievement but also results in a comprehensive Local Plan that serves as an excellent tool for planners and sets a high standard for future collaborations”.
Best Plan Commended
The East Suffolk Healthy Environments Supplementary Planning Document, submitted by East Suffolk Council, Best Plan
The Healthy Environments Supplementary Planning Document nominated by East Suffolk Council was produced to improve the district’s health and wellbeing through providing healthy placemaking design guidance that ‘raises the bar’ for new homes, schools, workplaces, open spaces, centres, and the public realm of new developments in the district. Supporting Local Plan policies, the SPD is intended to support the active creation and preservation of health and wellbeing, as well as help prevent the creation of the environmental conditions that drive the onset of ill-health, deprivation, exclusion and lower quality of life.
Judges‘ comment: “Our judges said that your efforts truly exemplify the spirit of leadership and innovation in our community. They highlighted your exceptional planning skills, which are clear indicators of your commitment and foresight. The judges noted that this document does not merely represent a significant milestone but also serves as a lasting influence on future developments within our Authority. Your work is poised to inspire and guide us for years to come”.