Recommendation 76

Local planning authorities are responsible for producing strategic policies for their areas and for granting planning permission for new buildings on the high street or other regeneration projects. As part of this role, the National Planning Policy Framework requires Local Plans, which ensure the vitality of town centres by “taking a positive approach to their growth, management and adaptation”. 149 These plans were described as being a central part of the vision for an area and “often at the heart of discussions between and bringing together multiple stakeholder groups”. 150 Data from January 2024 found that only 21 per cent of Local Planning Authorities had adopted a new Local Plan within the last five years; of those without an up-to-date plan, 78 per cent were in the process of creating one. 151 Planning approvals