ABSTRACT
This chapter examines those views and actions of the government since 1979 which relate to the modification of development plan legislation. It discusses those proposals that have led to modifications to the development plan system, to analyse the significance of the modifications. The chapter shows the ministers constantly emphasis that they support the role of planning in maintaining the heritage and protecting the environment. It explains that the market-led approach is illustrated in nearly all the initiatives and the direct involvement of central government in strategic guidance can ensure this emphasis throughout the system. The clear statement of the new government's approach to planning came in the Secretary of State's reports on the structure plans that were awaiting central government approval. In Southwark the conflict was between planning to aid development and planning to satisfy the needs of the local community. The White Paper Lifting the Burden indicated that the government was looking at changes to the development plan system.
