Zoning by Stealth? The Diminution of Discretionary Planning

Two distinct views on English planning are driving changes within government. The first highlights its spatial nature and the role planning plays in coordination, integration and collaboration at different spatial scales. The other view is dominated by the need to deliver upon a range of targets related to national priorities such as housing development. Both views concern different aspects of planning: the former to development planning and the latter to development control. The long-term implications of these driving forces could be significant. One implication could be the diminution of the discretionary foundations of development control and involve a zoning approach. Another could be the re-emergence of a more centralized approach to development planning. This paper explores the driving forces behind changes to English planning and highlights a range of possible future trajectories.