Areas for producing spatial development strategies: consultation response

In March we responded to the government’s consultation on Spatial Development Strategies (SDS) geographies. These SDSs effectively return strategic planning powers to local areas, which has been a long-running CCN ask. We support the principle that SDSs should remain high‑level, long‑term strategic frameworks guiding growth, infrastructure planning, and cross‑boundary collaboration.

SDSs can help align decisions across housing, infrastructure, health, and the environment, breaking down existing silos and creating more sustainable places. Clear national guidance will be essential to define the distinct roles of SDSs and Local Plans and ensure consistency, especially where Local Plans are adopted before SDSs are in place.  

On geography, we advocate that SDS areas should be determined locally, aligning where possible with emerging devolution geographies. The response cautions against centrally-imposed boundaries and highlights the need to reflect the rural, polycentric character of many county areas.  

We stress the need for timely establishment of strategic planning boards, stable governance arrangements, appropriate transitional arrangements when plans are passed from upper tier authorities to new mayoral authorities, and sufficient resourcing. Without adequate funding and capacity, county areas risk falling behind in preparing SDSs.