The system as a whole, and the preparation of development plans in particular, is the most effective way of reconciling the demand for development and the protection of the environment. Thus it has a key role to play in contributing to the Government's strategy for sustainable development by helping to provide for necessary development in locations which do not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs'. Where an adopted or approved development plan contains relevant policies, section 54A requires that an application for planning permission or an appeal shall be determined in accordance with the plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. This provides a framework for rational and consistent decision making. The plan-led system can only be successful and command public confidence if plans are in place and are kept up to date.
Structure plans exist in all areas and are now going through cycles of alteration and replacement.
However, progress on achieving coverage of authority wide local plans and unitary plans has been much slower and full coverage across the country will not be achieved until after 2000. The Government regards this delay in implementing the plan-led system as unacceptable and expects those local authorities which have not yet adopted their plans to fulfil their statutory responsibility without further delay, and progress their plan to adoption as quickly as possible. It will closely monitor progress. The Government also wishes to ensure that as local plans and UDPs are reviewed, any subsequent alterations or replacements are adopted far more quickly than in the past. Following a review of local plan procedures, the Government is introducing revised arrangements.