The government has published the following consultation, which runs for 6 weeks from 12/02/2026 until 26/03/2026:

Consultation document:

• February 2026: Areas for producing spatial development strategies (link) (pdf print version of HTML webpage).

Notes:

• The "Summary" at the start of the above consultation document includes the following information:
  - "This paper seeks views on a series of proposed geographies over which spatial development strategies (SDS) should be produced. The geographies proposed in this paper are intended specifically for strategic planning purposes. The Government recognises the value in aligning strategic planning with devolution geographies. Where mayoral devolution arrangements already exist, or will be implemented from April 2026, these are the most appropriate footprints on which to prepare spatial development strategies.".
  - "Where we believe that there is general agreement for strategic working which reflects the sensible geography criteria in the English Devolution White Paper published in December 2024, these areas are shown as proposed SDS geographies. Where no such arrangement or proposals exist, SDSs should still be developed over footprints that reflect the same sensible geography criteria in the White Paper, and we are inviting proposals and views.".
  - "The full set of geographies are summarised in a table at Annex A, and shown on a map at Annex B. In parallel, we have announced the government's intention to progress a new wave of Foundation Strategic Authorities (FSAs) in areas currently lacking devolution.".