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A year of landmark moments: Annual Report and Accounts 2025/26 published
The Planning Inspectorate has published its procedure guide for local plan examinations under the new local plan system.
Ben Alexander appointed as the new Chair of the Planning Inspectorate Advisory Board
The Planning Inspectorate publishes Webinar 10 - The Final Countdown: For local plans aiming for examination in 2026 (legacy system)
Our approach to issuing decisions, reports and recommendations before the 7 May 2026 elections.
We're asking stakeholders across the planning sector to share their views to help us keep improving.
Local Plan Holding Direction: letter from the Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP, to Three Rivers District Council.
Local Plan Intervention: letter from the Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP, to Three Rivers District Council.
The Planning Inspectorate has today announced the permanent appointment of Rebecca Phillips as Chief Planning Inspector, following a competitive recruitment process.
An update from MHCLG about the new plan-making system and content roadmap
The Planning Inspectorate is recruiting chartered professionals from the built environment and related fields to become local plan inspectors. Applications close on 22 February 2026.
The Planning Inspectorate has published the December official statistics
Hounslow tested an interactive map-based tool to help residents explore its 700-page design code more easily.
Southampton tested interactive maps and early-stage 3D modelling to help residents understand and respond to local plan proposals more easily.
Plymouth, South Hams and West Devon tested AI tools to tag and summarise consultation responses, improving insight for officers and reducing processing time.
Stockport tested a visual, map-based consultation tool to make local plan evidence and site information easier for residents to understand.
Hounslow and Chesterfield tested software to manage consultation responses, cutting processing time by 45% and improving consistency across planning teams.
Cotswold District Council used a consultation hub to make its local plan easier to understand, increase participation and reduce officer processing time.
Five South West Hertfordshire councils used digital tools to reach thousands of residents and gather detailed feedback for their joint strategic plan.
The Planning Inspectorate’s CEO, Paul Morrison writes to The Minister for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP in response to his letter of 27 November 2025
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