As a result of changes to the planning system, work has begun on the Bristol Development Framework (BDF), which will gradually replace the Local Plan and associated documents. The BDF consists of a set of shorter, separate documents that can be produced independently of one another and reviewed when needed.

This page sets out the main components of the BDF and links to pages detailing their content and progress. A programme for preparation of these documents is set out in the Local Development Scheme (see below) along with an illustrative timeframe (please note that the timeframe is up to date at the time of publication and subject to revision).

Bristol Development Framework (BDF)

Change in Bristol is happening quickly: an extra 54,200 jobs, 29,500 new homes and 13% increase in population (53,800) by 2026. The BDF will guide the significant growth that will be occurring in Bristol over the next 20 years.

Core Strategy

The Core Strategy sets out the council's strategic approach to shaping the future of the city. 

• Core Strategy Preferred Options
• Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal
• Previous stages in production of the Core Strategy
• Core Strategy evidence base

Waste Strategy

A joint Waste Development Plan Document is being prepared to determine the way that Bristol and surrounding authorities will deal with waste over the next 20 years or more.

Development Control Policies

The timetable for preparation of this document is set out in the Local Development Scheme (see below).

Site Specific Allocations

The timetable for preparation of this document is set out in the Local Development Scheme (see below).

Supplementary Planning Documents

The council has 10 fully adopted Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs), which provide further detail to planning policy in the adopted 1997 Local Plan and 2003 Proposed Alterations. 

Statement of Community Involvement 

The Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) establishes the council's strategy and methods for involving people in the preparation of planning documents and the process of emerging development proposals. 

Local Development Scheme 

The Local Development Scheme (LDS) is the programme for preparation of documents in the Bristol Development Framework. It includes key milestones to inform the public about opportunities to be involved in the production of the Core Strategy, and new Statement of Community Involvement. A revised LDS was approved by Cabinet in March 2007.

Annual Monitoring Report 

The Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) is published yearly, reporting on progress of the production of documents in the Bristol Development Framework, and the extent to which key objectives of the Bristol Local Plan (and in future the BDF) are being achieved.

BDF Updates

If you or your organisation wish to be directly contacted by the planning policy team to learn about the latest involvement & consultation events, emergence or adoption of BDF planning documents and any important news relating to the BDF, you may wish to join the BDF consultation database.

To join either E-mail: bdf@bristol.gov.uk   or phone 0117 903 6693 and give your details.

Wherever possible we wish to involve and consult people electronically, through our website and via E-mail. This allows us to quickly and cost effectively circulate information. However, hard copies of documents and update letters can be sent if you do not have a useable E-mail.