Strategic planning in Suffolk

What the Strategic Planning team does

The team works with local planning authorities and other organisations to make sure new developments meet the needs of Suffolk's communities.

This includes:

• working with local planning authorities to coordinate housing and employment growth
• supporting the development of Local Plans and addressing planning issues that affect more than one council area
• making sure plans consider essential services, including schools, transport, libraries, waste services, public rights of way and archaeology
• working with partners to identify and plan infrastructure needed to support new developments
• coordinating the county council's responses to Local Plan, Neighbourhood Plan and masterplan consultations
• contributing to Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charging schedules, which help fund infrastructure needed for development

Ipswich Garden Suburb

The team works with planning authorities and developers on proposals for Ipswich Garden Suburb.

This includes reviewing planning applications, coordinating infrastructure requirements and seeking developer contributions through Section 106 agreements to help fund essential services and facilities.

Suffolk Planning Board

The Suffolk Planning Board, previously known as the Ipswich Strategic Policy Area (ISPA) Board, brings local authorities together to address planning matters that affect more than one council area.

Minerals and waste planning

The team contributes to planning for minerals and waste management through Suffolk's Minerals and Waste Plan.

This helps guide where mineral extraction and waste management facilities can be developed.

Spatial Development Strategy

Suffolk County Council is supporting early work on a Spatial Development Strategy for Norfolk and Suffolk. The future Spatial Development Strategy will plan for future housing, employment and infrastructure needs across Norfolk and Suffolk.