Issue details

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) intends to enact new Plan-making regulations anticipated at the end of February 2026.

MHCLG guidance published in November 2025 in advance of the regulations outlines that to comply with the new plan-making regulations, Local Planning Authorities are required at the start of the process, to publish a notice of intention to commence, publish a Local Plan Timetable (that will replace the council’s adopted Local Development Scheme July 2025) and undertake scoping consultation.

It is a Council function to approve commencement of a development plan document. Whilst Council resolved to approve the update of the Kirklees Local Plan in November 2023, this decision was made under the current plan making system. A report will be presented to Council on 15^th July 2026 seeking approval to commence plan-making under the impending new system.

It is a Cabinet function to approve/submit and publish the required elements (outlined above) to start the process. A report will be presented to Cabinet on 24^th March 2026 seeking approval for these plan making activities.

Engagement

MHCLG published new plan making guidance in November 2025 in advance of the enactment of new plan making regulations. Following publication, there has been ongoing dialogue with Planning Advisory Service to prepare for the regulations and plan for the implications.

Statutory requirements for early engagement have been revised through the new regulations. This is outlined in the report.

Background papers

MHCLG Plan-making regulations explainer November 2025: Plan-making regulations explainer - GOV.UK