Local Plan
Assessment Support

Local Plans set out the vision for development in an area. They establish strategic policies such as where new housing and employment land should be allocated, alongside non-strategic policies that shape design, infrastructure, and environmental standards.

They are legally binding and guide planning decisions, provided they align with national policy (notably the National Planning Policy Framework, or NPPF). For a Local Plan to be considered sound, the local planning authority must publish a proportionate evidence base, demonstrate sustainability, and meet legal obligations such as consultation and the Duty to Cooperate.

At the examination stage, planning inspectors review the plan for both legal compliance and soundness. Without robust evidence, plans risk challenge, delay, or rejection.

How enevo supports Local Plan assessments

enevo provides a wide range of technical assessments, modelling, and reporting services that can form part of the evidence base required by local planning authorities. Our expertise ensures environmental, sustainability, acoustic, and building performance evidence is clear, accurate, and aligned with both policy and regulatory requirements.

We support authorities, developers, and consultants at all stages of Local Plan preparation with inputs such as:

• Sustainability Appraisal evidence: Assessing environmental, social, and economic impacts of development proposals.


• Habitats Regulation Assessment inputs: Specialist modelling and environmental evidence to demonstrate ecological protection.


• Energy and carbon assessments: Providing data for climate change policies and net zero commitments, including Whole Life Carbon (LCA) assessments underpinning many current Local Plans.


• Acoustic services: Environmental noise mapping and impact assessment, support for site allocations and masterplans, construction and operational noise management, and policy-compliant mitigation strategies.


• Health, wellbeing, and quality of life metrics: Covering air quality, noise, overheating risk, and daylight availability.


• Evidence for infrastructure and housing standards: Demonstrating compliance with Building Regulations and best practice benchmarks.