The Modernising Planning Processes Consultation Paper, published on 13 February 2002 represents the first comprehensive review of the planning system in nearly 30 years. Representations, which covered the broad range of key internal and external stakeholders, were carefully considered and analysed to assist with drafting an Implementation Plan. The Minister, Angela Smith MP, launched this Plan on the 3 February 2003, as part of an overall "Planning to Deliver" programme aimed at modernising the Planning Service.

The Minister explained that there were 3 key themes that flow through the Implementation Plan, namely accessibility, simplicity and speed. The plan sets out a challenging 3-year programme to modernise and reform planning processes in a fundamental way.

The published Implementation Plan sets out the way forward on each and every issue and gives the timescale within which each issue will be taken forward. Further examples of critical projects to be implemented include: -

- revised DC targets in April 2003 ;
- enhanced electronic DC process ;
- review of fees, neighbour notification, use classes and PD ;
- improved consultation, particularly with statutory consultees and local councils ;
- streamlined Plan process ;
- full Plan coverage by end 2006 ;
- reduced number of Plans ;
- accelerated programme of PPS's ;
- full Policy suite by 2005 ;
- hierarchy of policies and supplementary guidance ;
- research programme ;
- enhanced community involvement ; and
- promoting a joined up approach.

The aim is to complete the implementation of the package of reforms by the end of 2005, in line with the target set by the government in the Programme for Government. (PfG)