Frequently asked questions

Page updated on: 31/08/2023

What is the Revised Local Development Plan (LDP)?

A Local Development Plan (LDP) sets out proposals and policies for the future use of all local land, and is the main development plan document in Wales. The LDP covers a period of fifteen years and should reflect national planning policy in Wales.

At our council meeting on the 10th of January 2018 we resolved to prepare a revised LDP for Carmarthenshire. The preparatory process for an LDP is expected to be completed in 3.5 years, with some of the key stages highlighted below. The timetable for the preparation of the Revised LDP is set out within the Delivery Agreement (DA) which was agreed by the Welsh Government on the 28th June 2018.

Once adopted (completed) the Revised LDP will be used as the basis for deciding on planning applications and will assist in guiding future investment programmes in areas such as infrastructure as well as Plans and strategies including those of partner organisations.

How is the LDP prepared?

The LDP is prepared by the Local Planning Authority.  There are a number of steps to preparing the Plan and different stages of consultation and involving people in its preparation.  Before starting work on the LDP, we produced a Delivery Agreement which sets out the LDP’s timetable and when and how people could get involved.

During the preparation of the LDP, we will build an evidence base to inform and support the Plan. We have also produced an Easy Read Introduction to the Revised LDP.

View the delivery agreement View the evidence base Download the introduction to the revised LDP (.pdf)

How can I get involved in the LDP?

Throughout the preparation of the LDP there will be a number of opportunities to get involved. 

Before starting work on the LDP, we produced a Delivery Agreement which sets out the LDP’s timetable and when and how people could get involved. 

View the delivery agreement

What is a Representation?

At different stages of preparing the Revised LDP there will be opportunities for people to get involved and tell us what they think.  A Representation is the word used for submitting comments to us.

What is Soundness?

Legislation requires the LDP to be "sound", and for this to be tested by an independent examination. There are 3 tests of soundness against which the LDP will be assessed. Under each test there are a series of questions which are to be considered:

Test 1: Does the plan fit? (i.e. is it clear that the LDP is consistent with other plans?)

  • Does it have regard to national policy and WSP
  • Does it have regard to Well-being Goals
  • Does it have regard the Welsh National Marine Plan
  • Is it consistent with regional plans, strategies and utility programmes?
  • Is it compatible with the plans of neighbouring authorities?
  • Does it reflect the Single Integrated Plan (SIP) or the National Park Management Plan (NPMP)?

Test 2: Is the plan appropriate? (i.e. is the plan appropriate for the area in the light of the evidence?)

  • Is it locally specific?
  • Does it address the key issues?
  • Is it supported by robust, proportionate and credible evidence?
  • Can the rationale behind plan policies be demonstrated?
  • Does it seek to meet assessed needs and contribute to the achievement of sustainable development?
  • Are the vision and the strategy positive and sufficiently aspirational?
  • Have the 'real' alternatives been properly considered?
  • Is it logical, reasonable and balanced?
  • Is it coherent and consistent?
  • Is it clear and focused?

Test 3: Will the plan deliver (i.e. is it likely to be effective?)

  • Will it be effective?
  • Can it be implemented?
  • Is there support from the relevant infrastructure providers both financially and in terms of meeting relevant timescales?
  • Will development be viable?
  • Can the sites allocated be delivered?
  • Is the plan sufficiently flexible? Are there appropriate contingency provisions?
  • Is it monitored effectively?

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