The planning system manages the use and development of land and buildings with the aim of creating sustainable places to live and work. Without a planning system in place, development would not be controlled and could take place anywhere, with considerable impact on people and the environment. Potential development activity is managed through planning applications, using local plans as a basis to make

The planning system has two parts which are usually the responsibility of the local planning authority:

• Plan making – setting out proposals for development and policies to guide development over a period of time.
• Development management – where planning decisions are made through the assessment of planning

For development that requires planning permission, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is responsible for deciding whether the development should go Decisions on planning applications in North Waltham are currently based on the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the policies of the adopted Basingstoke and Deane Local Plan 2011–2029 (adopted in May 2016) and the Hampshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan 2013.

If ‘made’ (adopted) the North Waltham Neighbourhood Plan will also become part of the development plan and be used in decision making on planning applications within the parish (Neighbourhood Plan boundary).

The NPPF sets out the government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. The framework gives guidance to local planning authorities in drawing up development plans and on making decisions on planning

The NPPF includes a presumption in favour of sustainable development and sets out core planning principles to be followed which include environmental, social and economic aspects. National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG) supports the NPPF and provides further guidance on planning issues such as neighbourhood planning.

Local plans are prepared by local planning authorities and set out the strategic priorities and planning policies for the local authority area. The policies in a local plan set out to deliver key development including homes and jobs required, the provision of retail and community facilities and infrastructure. Policies relating to managing climate change, conservation and enhancement of the natural and historic environment are also included. Local plans must be positively prepared, justified, effective and consistent with national policy in line with s20 of the planning and compulsory purchase act 2004 (as amended) and the Further information on the current adopted Local Plan can be found at – http://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/planningpolicy