Stratford-on-Avon District Council has adopted an Interim Policy Position Statement to help increase housing delivery while ensuring that new development is directed to sustainable locations, supported by appropriate infrastructure and high-quality design.

The interim approach has been introduced in response to the current planning context, which includes a shortfall in housing land supply and the period before the South Warwickshire Local Plan is adopted.

Earlier this year, changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) reinforced the requirement for local planning authorities to support the delivery of additional homes. In response, the District Council proactively developed and agreed an Action Plan to boost housing supply. A key commitment within that plan was the preparation of an Interim Policy Position Statement, which was endorsed by Cabinet on 1 June 2026.

Councillor George Cowcher, Planning and Economic Development Portfolio Holder, said: "This interim approach responds to the current planning context and is intended to provide greater clarity for residents, developers and local communities about how planning decisions will be made.

"It reflects the District Council's commitment to ensuring that new development is located in places that are well connected to jobs, services and public transport, where people can access everyday facilities with the minimum need to travel.

"While we must respond positively to the need for new homes, we remain committed to securing development that is sustainable, well designed and supported by the infrastructure communities need."

Under the interim approach, the District Council will continue to seek development that delivers high-quality places, responds positively to local character and protects the District's valued natural and historic environments.

Developers will be expected to demonstrate that proposals can be supported by the necessary infrastructure, including transport improvements, education provision, healthcare services, green infrastructure and other essential community facilities appropriate to the scale and nature of development.

The Interim Policy Position Statement is designed to provide greater certainty and consistency in planning decision-making while the South Warwickshire Local Plan progresses. It aims to ensure that growth is delivered in the most sustainable locations and in a way that benefits both existing and future communities across Stratford-on-Avon District.