All local authorities have a duty to produce a development plan for their area. In York, we have produced a development plan called a Local Plan. Its purpose is to provide a clear local framework to guide and promote development where it is needed, and protect the quality of York's unique historic, natural and built environment.

The Local Plan aims to ensure there is a balance between development, conservation and other concerns such as sustainability and the environment. York is a modern commercial city renowned for its heritage. Achieving sustainable development is at the forefront of the planning agenda and is the key vision of the Plan.

In line the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act (2004) every council must now prepare a Local Development Framework (LDF) to replace its existing statutory Development Plan. York's LDF will replace the City of York Local Plan Incorporating the 4th Set of Changes. View City of York's Local Development Framework.