Wales uses a tiered statutory development-plan system rather than relying on one local document alone.

Future Wales is the National Development Framework and provides the national spatial tier. Strategic Development Plans are intended to address cross-boundary regional planning matters, while Local Development Plans provide the local planning framework.

The tiers are intended to work together.

An LDP should therefore not be researched in isolation from Future Wales or, where applicable, the relevant strategic planning framework. National planning policy in Planning Policy Wales and Technical Advice Notes also remains important, although those documents should be distinguished from the statutory development plan itself.

Plan status must be checked carefully during periods of revision.

The Welsh Government can prepare a replacement or revised National Development Framework while the existing Future Wales remains operative. Consultation on a future plan does not, by itself, extinguish the current plan.

Sources and further information

Welsh Government - Future Wales: The National Plan 2040

Welsh Government - Strategic Development Plans: a community guide

PEDW - Local development plan examinations: procedure guidance

Last checked: 26 September 2026

Make the request within the formal representation process and identify the oral contribution sought.

State that the individual or group requests an Open Floor hearing, identify the application reference and explain the planning issues the speaker wishes to raise.

Explain why oral participation would assist the examination.

PEDW gives examples such as community-wide issues or oral evidence. A useful request identifies information that can be explained efficiently by a local representative rather than simply saying that the community wants a public meeting.

Keep the requested issues within the examination's planning remit.

The Examining Authority is concerned with planning impacts, benefits and the applicable development-plan framework. A request based solely on matters outside that remit is unlikely to assist the examination.

Nominate a spokesperson where several people will make the same case.

PEDW's Open Floor procedure allows speakers to nominate a spokesperson to avoid repetition. Campaign groups should decide this in advance and give the representative authority to present the agreed community evidence.

After the PEN is issued, opt in again where required.

The Primary Examination Notice sets the deadline for confirming or requesting attendance. A campaign should not assume that the earlier request means no further response is needed. Read and comply with the PEN.

Sources and further information

PEDW - How we examine Significant Infrastructure Projects

PEDW - How communities can take part in a Significant Infrastructure Project

Last checked: 26 September 2026

Most planning appeals are dealt with by written representations, although PEDW can use a hearing, inquiry or a combination of procedures where appropriate. The Inspector considers the application material, appeal documents, relevant law and policy and other material considerations.

An appeal is not simply a second public consultation. Participants should follow the procedure and deadlines specified for the appeal.

Sources and further information

Welsh Government / PEDW - Planning appeals guidance https://www.gov.wales/planning-appeals-guidance-html

Last checked: 25 September 2026

There is no general third-party planning merits appeal equivalent to the applicant's section 78 appeal. A person who believes a decision is legally flawed may need to consider the separate legal remedies available rather than a planning appeal.

Legal challenges are subject to different tests and strict time limits. Obtain appropriate legal advice promptly if considering court proceedings.

Sources and further information

Welsh Government / PEDW - Planning appeals guidance https://www.gov.wales/planning-appeals-guidance-html

Last checked: 25 September 2026

Planning enforcement concerns development that may have been carried out without required permission or in breach of planning control. Local planning authorities have enforcement powers and must decide whether formal action is appropriate in the circumstances.

An enforcement dispute is different from objecting to a current planning application. Where an enforcement notice is served, specified persons with an interest in the land can have statutory appeal rights.

Sources and further information

Welsh Government / PEDW - Appeal a planning enforcement notice https://www.gov.wales/appeal-planning-enforcement-notice

Last checked: 25 September 2026