Options for a significant review of the planning system have been put forward by the Government in the shape of the Planning Green Paper. Local planning authorities and other interested bodies have now lodged their comments and the Government is considering the responses.

A 'policy statement' is expected in the summer.
The green paper's major objective is said to be to make planning a 'better, simpler, faster, more accessible system that serves both business and the community'.

Westminster City Council (Westminster Local Planning Authority) agrees with this aim, but is concerned that the green paper's proposals for reform of the planning policy process do not advance greatly on Westminster's current draft replacement unitary development plan (UDP), its own 'city blueprint'.