The new National Planning Policy Framework was published on 27th March, replacing 44 previous guidance documents with 50 pages of policy.  It takes effect immediately, and is now a material consideration in the determination of all new planning permissions.  There is a presumption in favour of sustainable development but there are also measures to protect green belt land and prioritise  development in town centres and the re-use of brownfield land.  Local authorities must produce, and annually update, plans to supply enough land for housing for five years.   They should discuss the need for conditions or s106 obligations with the developer and explore options for keeping costs to a minimum so that new development sites are not made unviable.  See www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/2115939.pdf