ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews a number of the issues that arose during the preparation of the draft Regional Planning Guidance (RPG) and its subsequent stages through the Public Examination. The deadline for the production of the Draft Regional Economic Strategy of South West of England Regional Development Agency was almost identical to the deadline for the production of Draft RPG. The relative merits of a sub-regional approach, in terms of adding substance to draft RPG for the South West, have been debated throughout the process. Some of the participants at the Public Examination welcomed the greater emphasis on a sub-regional approach to determining future development patterns. The new process of producing RPG and the broadening of its remit are part of the Government's wider regional agenda. The establishment of Regional Development Agencies, the requirement for Regional Sustainability Frameworks, Regional Cultural Strategies and Regional Housing Statements are all part of this agenda.
