Hertsmere Borough Council is considering the implications of the Government's revised timetable for Local Plan submissions.
The Government has announced that certain local planning authorities will be able to submit Local Plans up to March 2027 under the current planning system, providing additional flexibility within the national timetable.
The revised arrangements are intended to support authorities whose plans are already at an "advanced stage" of preparation and are approaching the final stages of the plan-making process.
The Council is reviewing what the revised timetable may mean for Hertsmere's Local Plan programme. Work on the Local Plan continues, including the consideration of consultation representations, preparation of supporting evidence and arrangements for independent examination.
Councillor Nik Oakley, Portfolio Holder for Planning, Infrastructure and Transport, said:
"The Government's decision provides additional flexibility for authorities that are already at an advanced stage in preparing their Local Plans. Hertsmere has made significant progress in bringing forward its Plan and is on target to submit by the original deadline of the end of December. However, given the offer from MHCLG, I am considering what benefits could accrue for us.
"Importantly, work on the Local Plan continues. Officers are reviewing consultation responses and preparing evidence ahead of submission. Submitting the plan is an important milestone, but it is not the end of the process. Our focus remains on getting the plan adopted as soon as possible, giving us greater local control over development."
The Council will consider its position, and any proposed changes to the Local Development Scheme, through the appropriate decision-making process.
Further updates will be provided as decisions are taken.
Read more about the Local Plan: www.hertsmere.gov.uk/newlocalplan