Sets out the government's planning policy statement for planning for town centres. The policy seeks to promote and enhance existing town centres by means of a plan-led approach. States that local planning authorities should take a positive and proactive approach to planning for the future of all types of centres in their area. Notes that future development should concentrate on existing town centres where possible with the objective of strengthening and regenerating them where appropriate. Recommends that wherever possible, growth should be accommodated by making better use of land and buildings within existing centres and that local planning authorities should aim to increase the density of development where appropriate. Advises that in areas of significant growth or where deficiencies are identified in the current network of centres, new centres can be designated through the plan-making process, with priority being given to deprived areas. Recommends that local planning authorities should gauge the scope for strengthening centres in decline by trying to focus a wider range of services there and by promoting diversification of uses and environmental improvements.

Department for Communities and Local Government, tel. +44 (0) 20 7944 4400

01/01/2005

policy

Urban Policy > Urban environment > Urban renewal

City centre development