Updated NPPF, August 2026

This week has seen the publication of the updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for England by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).  

This latest framework represents a significant step forward in aligning national planning policies and priorities.  

The NPPF reflects many core priorities for planning, sustainable transport, inclusive design, and active travel, reinforcing the crucial link between transport planning and high-quality placemaking. 

Refocusing the Definition of Sustainable Transport 

In a major policy alignment, the government has amended the glossary definition of ‘sustainable transport modes.'  

By removing references to ultra-low and zero-emission vehicles and car sharing, the framework now focuses more fully on active travel (walking, wheeling, and cycling) and public transport.  

The position is that switching to electric vehicles (EVs) does not address network congestion, encourage more efficient land use, or promote the physical activity required to improve public health. 

Prioritising Active Travel and Street Design 

The NPPF now explicitly integrates key design parameters to support healthy, active lifestyles.  

Specific reference is made to permeable street networks, continuous footways, and segregated cycle infrastructure to support walking, cycling, and overall legibility in new developments. 

This is supported by the inclusion of "movement" as a central, high-level principle of well-designed placemaking. 

Safe and Inclusive Design for Women and Girls 

The updates also support gender-inclusive mobility; the NPPF makes explicit reference to the needs of women, girls, and other vulnerable groups.  

In alignment with the national Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategy, the framework directs that streets and public spaces must be designed to be safe, inclusive, and accessible for all users.  

This recognises that the perception of safety is fundamental to encouraging walking, wheeling, and public transport use. 

Limiting the Need to Travel 

The framework includes greater recognition of the importance of developments that limit the need to travel by private car, through strategic location choice and decision-making.  

This supports a focus on the "whole-life" impact of developments, with the intention that everyday trips can be made using active and sustainable transport modes. 

Clear Definitions of Accessibility 

The addition of new definitions for ‘reasonable walking distance’ and a ‘well-connected station’ provides clearer benchmarks for developers and local authorities.  

The framework also acknowledges that local context and route quality directly impact travel choices and what is considered a reasonable walking distance. 

Alignment with Local Transport Plans 

Under the Vision-led approach to planning for transport, the framework requires planners to align land-use policies with Local Transport Plans (LTPs) and Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs).  

This requires accessibility and connectivity to be considered at the earliest stages of design to prevent car-centric habits from becoming entrenched. 

 The Status of Manual for Streets 

It would be useful to see increased reference to Manual for Streets throughout the NPPF, especially surrounding making effective use of land and achieving well-designed place. 

Stronger Support for Bus Services 

The revised NPPF contains limited references to buses despite their essential role in inclusive mobility and social equity.  

Resolving Terminology Loopholes 

The framework still contains vague terminology around what constitutes "significant movement" or "sustainable growth" as well as what constitutes a “severe” effect on the transport network. This could either create loopholes, or could create a barrier to achieving sustainable development.