Supplementary planning guidance

Supplementary planning guidance includes: concept statements, masterplans, development briefs, technical guidance notes and guidance on specific topics all of which provide additional information about how to interpret or what to consider in planning policies.

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Technical guidance notes

Concept statements

A concept statement is a simple, clear expression of the kind of place that a new development should create. It sets out how the policies and objectives of the Local Plan will apply to a specific site in order to deliver the best possible economic, social and environmental benefits. Prepared by the relevant planning authority it is the subject of consultation before it is approved.

Concept Statement Protocol

Masterplans

Masterplans are an essential tool in planning proposals for development in local communities.

As identified in policy LP11 of the emerging West Suffolk Local Plan, masterplans are required for proposals where it has been identified in a site allocation policy within the local plan and on any site by virtue of size, location or proposed mix of uses is justified by the local planning authority.

A masterplan protocol and guidance technical note (March 2025) has been published above.

A transitional arrangement for guidance using in preparation of masterplans will remain in place until the adoption of the West Suffolk Local Plan 2041 in 2025:

• Masterplans commenced in liaison with the local planning authority before the publication of this protocol (31 March 2025) will continue to follow the April 2019 masterplan protocol.
• Masterplans which commence after the publication of this protocol must comply with this updated protocol and guidance.

Development briefs

The adopted Vision 2031 Local Plan documents permit major development only where proposals are in line with any relevant briefs approved by the local planning authority. In addition, see policy DM4 of the adopted joint development management policies document.

Development Brief Protocol

Management plans

Guides