Key differences between Planning Practice Guidance and the National Planning Policy Framework
06 Mar, 20251-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- What Planning Policy Guidance was.
- What Planning Practice Guidance is.
- What the National Planning Policy Framework is.
- What the differences between Planning Practice Guidance and the National Planning Policy Framework are.
- Where the latest planning jobs are and how to apply for them.
The UK planning sector can be a complex landscape when it comes to deciphering important policies. From Planning Practice Guidance to the National Planning Policy Framework, there is a lot for Planners to wrap their head around. In our latest blog we’re exploring Planning Practice Guidance and the National Planning Policy Framework and the key differences between the two.
What was Planning Policy Guidance?
Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) notes were government issued documents that served the purpose of detailing how national planning policies should be interpreted and applied in the real world.
In 2012, Planning Policy Guidance was replaced by the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which took over as the UK’s primary document for national planning policy.
Before they ceased to exist, PPGs detailed different topics within the planning profession, such as transport, the environment and housing. In between the resignation of Planning Policy Guidance and the inception of the NPPF, Planning Policy Statements (PPS) were introduced to streamline and modernise planning guidance.
However, both Planning Policy Guidance and Planning Policy Statements were replaced by the NPPF over 10 years ago.
What is Planning Practice Guidance?
Today, ‘PPG’ refers to Planning Practice Guidance, which exists online to provide guidance that supports the NPPF. Key features of Planning Practice Guidance include assistance on how to implement NPPF policies and information surrounding environmental impact and housing need assessments.
What is the National Planning Policy Framework?
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is a key document in the UK planning sector serving to outline the government’s planning policies across England. The document can be accessed through the government website and provides vital guidance for local planning authorities on developing local plans and assessing planning applications.
First introduced in 2012, the NPPF sets out national planning policies covering areas such as housing, transport, the economy, business, and the natural environment.
The framework highlights several important aspects of planning and emphasises the need for sustainable development to ensure that planning decisions support environmental protection and consider this at the heart of all decision-making. Additionally, it establishes housing targets for local authorities, helping to guarantee the provision of affordable housing within communities.
Economic growth is another significant focus of the NPPF, with the promotion of investment in transport and digital infrastructure aimed at boosting both local and national economies. The framework also underlines the importance of high-quality developments, ensuring that planning in the UK meets rigorous safety and design standards.
What are the differences between Planning Practice Guidance and the National Planning Policy Framework?
Across the UK planning sector, Planning Practice Guidance and the National Planning Policy Framework must compliment each other whilst serving distinct roles.
Here is a breakdown of the key differences:
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