Uttlesford District Council

Uttlesford’s Planning Team has been on a transformation journey. In 2022, it was formally designated for underperformance and in 2023 threatened with local plan intervention. In response, it delivered rapid and sustained transformation, stabilised staff resources, launched new performance software with partners, and updated its policy framework. Quality and speed of decisions improved dramatically from 2024 and committee overturns fell sharply. The team now delivers high-quality, sustainable development, and major permissions such as the London Stansted Airport expansion. In 2025 it was de-designated and delivered a robust, adoptable Local Plan. It now provides sector leadership, sharing learning with other authorities.