The system balances competing and often conflicting demands to make sure that land is used and developed in everyone's long-term interest. It is important to achieve development which avoids harming the long-term needs of people, the economy or the environment. This is called sustainable development. Planning can help to encourage sustainable development by influencing new buildings and changes in land use. Planning is about the future development and use of land.
Decisions are usually best taken at the local level, so planning is normally a matter for councils.
Development plans The development plan is made up of two parts - the structure plan and the local plan. Between them they show how much development may take place, where it will take place and where it is unlikely to be allowed. Development plans are the basis for decisions on planning applications. They contain policies for the future development and use of land in an area. Plans can cover a wide range of issues such as housing, transport, employment, shopping, recreation and conserving and protecting the countryside.