Test of soundness for local plans
Local plans are prepared by local planning authorities and set out a framework for the future development of an area on a 15-year horizon. They define; the priorities for an area, strategic policies, the framework for neighbourhood plans, land allocations, infrastructure requirements, housing needs, requirements for safeguarding the environment, measures for adapting to climate change and so on. They are are also the starting-point for considering whether planning applications should be approved.
The national planning policy framework (NPPF) requires that local plans are examined by an independent inspector to assess whether they have been prepared in accordance with the duty to cooperate, legal and procedural requirements, and whether it is sound. This is described as a ‘test of soundness’.
The national planning policy framework suggests that a local planning authority should submit a plan for examination which it considers is sound, namely that it is:
- Positively prepared – the plan should be prepared based on a strategy which seeks to meet objectively assessed development and infrastructure requirements, including unmet requirements from neighbouring authorities where it is reasonable to do so and consistent with achieving sustainable development.
- Justified – the plan should be the most appropriate strategy, when considered against the reasonable alternatives, based on proportionate evidence.
- Effective – the plan should be deliverable over its period and based on effective joint working on cross-boundary strategic priorities.
- Consistent with national policy – the plan should enable the delivery of sustainable development in accordance with the policies in the Framework.
The Planning Advisory Service (PAS) offer a local plan checklist intended to help local planning authorities work through the soundness requirements. The Planning Inspectorate (PINS) encourages local planning authorities to conduct a self-assessment using the checklist.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Authority monitoring report.
- Community plan.
- Development management.
- Development plan.
- Development plan documents.
- Local development scheme.
- Local plan.
- Neighbourhood plan.
- NPPF.
- Planning authorities.
- Planning permission.
- Saved policies.
- Skeffington Report.
- Statement of community involvement.
- Supplementary planning documents.
- The London Plan.
Featured articles and news
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.