On 17 August 2026, the UK Government published a new version of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), marking a significant overhaul of national planning policy since the framework was first introduced in 2012. The revisions aim to accelerate housing delivery (to deliver 1.5 million new homes in England within the next five years), support economic growth and provide greater clarity for local planning authorities and developers.
Key measures comprise a new "default yes" approach towards new residential development within a reasonable walking distance of well-connected rail stations, streamlined planning requirements for smaller scale schemes and creating a new category of “medium” development, and support for strategic infrastructure projects such as data centres and AI Growth Zones. The Government maintains that the reforms will help unlock thousands of new homes while ensuring development is concentrated in sustainable, well-connected locations.
18.8.2026
