ABSTRACT
Local plans lie at the heart of the planning system in the United Kingdom. They set the scene for acceptable development, because applications for planning permission must be determined in accordance with the development plan unless there are material planning considerations which indicate otherwise. According to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), 'local plans are the key to delivering sustainable develop ment that reflects the vision and aspirations of local communities'. In its Statement of Community Involvement, Wigan MBC sets out how the council will consult and involve people in the preparation of local plans. It is evident that the process of plan making is complex and can be carried out over an extended period. Statistics provided by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) demonstrates that local planning is a lengthy process. Alongside the gathering of a robust evidence base for the production of local plans, local authorities are required to carry out a sustainability appraisal.
