Interpreting detailed site issues at a strategic level through local policy

This project investigated the interpretation of detailed procedures for policy decision making policy at a strategic level. Local Development Frameworks were introduced through the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, to provide scope for an approach to spatial planning that is visionary, wide-ranging, participative and deliverable. They provide local authorities with an opportunity to take a fresh look at their areas; and develop strategic approaches to spatial planning that deliver sustainable development and reflect the aspirations of local communities. Sustainability appraisal is the tool through which to assess the potential social, environmental and economic effects of the Core Strategy. Our experience shows that it is difficult to use the sustainability framework other than as a generic tool, because of the strategic nature of Core Strategies. It is likely that at the strategic level, similar difficulties will be encountered with other processes, such as Appropriate Assessment and Strategic Flood Risk Assessment.