Information on strategic policy documents that guide us. Strategic policies are those that extend beyond the Borough
Strategic planning policies
Strategic planning considerations require us to look beyond the Borough boundaries in plan and/ or policy making. This requires cooperation between us and our neighbouring local planning authorities and/ or County Councils.
We work in partnership with various other local authorities and/or groups to develop strong strategic planning frameworks.
National planning policies also provide strategic policy direction. Further information about key strategic policies is set out below.
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
This document sets out the Government's planning policies for England, and how these are expected to be applied. It was originally published on 27 March 2012. This has subsequently gone through several updates, the most recent version being published in February 2025.
You can view the document on the GOV.UK website - National Planning Policy Framework.
Planning practice guidance
You can find planning practice guidance on the GOV.UK planning practice guidance page. This guidance provides supporting information to the NPPF.
Other national planning policies
- Planning policy for traveller sites
- Sustainable drainage systems policy
- Parking policy
- Starter Homes policy
- Housing Delivery Test measurement rule book
- Planning for schools development: statement
Norfolk Strategic Planning Framework
The Norfolk Strategic Planning Framework (NSPF) is a collaborative plan developed by all the local planning authorities in Norfolk, Norfolk County Council, and public bodies. It sets out a series of agreements for planning, including for the preparation of local plans throughout Norfolk.
The NSPF helps to meet the Duty to Cooperate, which is a legal requirement for working together on strategic matters. It covers a variety of matters including, Housing and Growth, Infrastructure, the Environment, and Health and Wellbeing.
The most recent version was endorsed by partners in 2025. We endorsed the update under delegated powers. This updates the Plan to reflect changes in national policy and local priorities. The latest version of the NSPF is available to view below.
For further information please see the Norfolk Strategic Planning Member Forum.
Norfolk Strategic Planning Framework 2025
Other strategic policies and agreements
We cooperate closely with many partners in plan/ policy making. This is a critical element of effective strategic planning. Such arrangements include: