Local Development Frameworks are used for planning at a local level.

The planning system outlines what can be built and where, and plays an important part in protecting the environment, in towns, cities and the countryside. This is described as a plan-led system.

What is a Local Development Framework?

At the heart of the government's system lies the Local Development Framework (LDF) that contains a number of key planning documents. There are three required documents in the Local Development Framework. These are the:

• Local Development Scheme – a project plan for the LDF, which states how the local authority will produce the LDF.
• Annual Monitoring Report - a report submitted to the government by a local planning authority (borough) to assess the progress and effectiveness the LDF.
• Statement of Community Involvement – a document explaining how the community will be involved in the development of the LDF. This is central to the government’s new plan system.

There are usually a few Development Plan Documents (DPDs) which have development plan status and there may also be optional Supplementary Planning Documents which expand or add details to local planning policies in DPDs

Regional Spatial Strategy

Planning matters in each region are managed by a regional planning body, which in London is the Mayor who produces an overall Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) – the London Plan. The Local Development Frameworks must be in general conformity with the London Plan, the strategic spatial plan for the region.