Written question asked by Laurence Robertson (Conservative) on Thursday, 30 June 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 July 2011. It was answered by Robert Neill (Conservative) on Thursday, 7 July 2011 on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Local Government

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether local authorities are required to work with neighbouring authorities in developing joint core strategies; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Councils should set out policies relating to the development and use of land in their area. They have the ability to plan with neighbouring authorities if they wish. The mechanism to produce, joint statutory development plans is set out in existing legislation.The Government are bringing forward proposals in the Localism Bill to ensure local councils work together in planning for sustainable development. Councils will be required to consider whether to prepare joint planning documents on matters that cross local planning authority boundaries.

Secondary information