The Act introduces wide-ranging changes to the planning system, including the reintroduction of strategic planning through spatial development strategies (SDSs) and new powers for local planning authorities to set and reinvest planning application fees.

Many areas outside London will gain strategic planning powers similar to those underpinning the London Plan, supporting the delivery of growth and housing across wider areas and guiding local plans.

The Act also introduces a surcharge on planning fees to help resource statutory consultees and the wider planning system, alongside proposals for a national scheme of delegation to bring greater consistency to planning decision-making.

The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has been closely engaged throughout the passage of the legislation, providing oral and written evidence to Parliament, producing parliamentary briefings, and working with MPs and Peers across both Houses. All four RTPI-proposed amendments were tabled and debated during the Bill’s passage.

Simon Creer, Director of External Affairs at the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: “This Act marks an important step in reshaping England’s planning system. The decision to embed strategic planning and improved resourcing for planning services into law demonstrates that the voices of the planning profession were heard.

“But reforms are not over yet. Consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework will be the profession's next major challenge – and I encourage all RTPI members to get involved.”

This legislation forms part of a wider programme of planning reform, with the Government also recently announcing proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, signalling one of the most significant shifts in planning policy in decades.

To support member engagement with these reforms, the Royal Town Planning Institute will be holding regional roundtables across all English regions from 12–23 January to help inform its ongoing response.