Stratford-on-Avon District Council has approved changes to its Constitution to reflect new national planning legislation that comes into force later this month.

The changes follow the introduction of the Town and Country Planning (Discharge of Local Planning Authority Functions) (England) Regulations 2026, which establish a national scheme of delegation for planning decisions across England.

The updated arrangements will ensure the District Council remains legally compliant when the new regulations take effect on 31 October 2026.

The legislation introduces a consistent national approach to determining which planning applications are decided by planning officers and which are considered by elected members through Planning Committee. 

The constitutional amendments approved by Full Council, on Monday 12 October, update the District Council's governance framework and decision-making processes to align with the new statutory requirements.

Councillor George Cowcher, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development said: "Despite our objection to these changes we are duty bound to implement them as these changes are required by national legislation; hence the changes to our Constitution, to ensure that the District Council continues to operate within the legal framework for planning decision-making. 

"Updating our Constitution now means we will be ready when the new regulations come into force and the District Council can continue to provide a transparent and effective planning service for our communities."

The District Council's Planning, Legal and Governance teams are working together to implement the changes, including providing training and guidance for Councillors and officers, and information for Town and Pariah Councils and other stakeholders.

For further information please visit: Planning Committees and the National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions: Guidance for local planning authorities in England - GOV.UK

The report from Audit and Standards Committee from 21 September that went to Full Council on 12 October can be viewed here.