[NOTE: For other Directions, please view the following posts:
- This post for the 2021 Direction (withdrawn).
- This post for the 2024 Direction (still in force)
- This post for the 2026 Direction (still in force).]
The following new Direction came into force on 31/03/2026:
New Direction:
Notes:
- The webpage (link) for the above 2026 Direction includes the following information:
- "[This is] A Direction made under the [DMPO 2015].".
- "On 31 March 2026, a new Town and Country Planning (Consultation) (England) Direction 2026 was published following an announcement in a Written Ministerial Statement made on 23 March 2026 [(link)].". - Note: The above 2026 Direction sets out that, where the LPA proposes to refuse certain types of application for planning permission, the LPA must consult the Secretary of State. These types of application are specified by paragraph 1, which states the following:
- "This Direction applies in relation to any application for planning permission which –
>>> (a) is for development which includes the provision of 150 or more houses, flats or houses and flats; and
>>> (b) has not been determined by a local planning authority before 11th May 2026.". - Note: Paragraph 3 sets out additional criteria that apply in the case of "a PSI application in Greater London".
- IMPORTANT: The above 2026 Direction (which applies where the LPA proposes to refuse certain types of application) does NOT replace the previous 2024 Direction (which applies where the LPA does not propose to refuse certain types of application). This is shown by the "Consultation Directions currently in force" section of this "Collection" page (link).
- UPDATE: On 17/04/2026 the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) published a letter (link) about the above 2026 Direction.