Policies we use
We are reviewing the policies we use by creating a Local Development Framework.
Regional Spatial Strategy
The Regional Spatial Strategy was adopted in 2008. It gives broad, strategic direction for how development should take place across the North West region. Some of its policies replace those previously found within the Structure Plan.
4NW (formerly the North West Regional Assembly) is responsible for the Regional Spatial Strategy. Our Local Development Framework must broadly conform with this document as well as national planning policies.
Structure Plan
The Structure Plan sets out strategic policies for Cumbria and the Lake District National Park.
Mind the gap
The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 allows Structure Plan policies to be saved for up to 3 years or until superseded by the adopted Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS). To avoid a gap in planning policies while waiting for policies to be adopted in the LDF, the Secretary of State has agreed to extend 23 Structure Plan policies for a further period until replaced by a future RSS review.
You can view the history behind the Joint Structure Plan on the Planning Cumbria website (opens in new window).
Local Plan
The Local Plan sets out more detailed policies to guide development.
The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 allows local planning authorities to save some Local Plan policies to avoid a gap in planning policies while waiting for policies to be adopted in the Local Development Framework.
Full details of the transition arrangements and a list of which policies still form part of the Development Plan for the Lake District National Park can be found in Important changes to the Local Plan and Structure Plan (opens Document Library)
