The Ealing Council Planning Advisory Committee is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 28 January 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a significant discussion on the draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for December 2025, alongside a briefing on climate resilience within the borough.

The New Draft National Planning Policy Framework

A substantial portion of the meeting is expected to be dedicated to the new draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) published in December 2025. This framework, which is currently out for consultation until 10 March 2026, outlines the government's proposed planning policies for England. The report pack indicates that the NPPF has been restructured to separate plan-making and decision-making policies, aiming for greater clarity and accessibility. Key proposed reforms include a permanent presumption in favour of suitably located development, measures to encourage building homes around stations and drive urban densification, and new policies on critical and growth minerals. The draft NPPF also seeks to streamline local standards and take a more positive approach to heritage assets. The committee will be briefed on the implications of these proposed changes for Ealing.

Climate Resilience

The committee will also receive a briefing on climate resilience within the borough. This discussion is linked to the council's 2025 Progress Report on climate action, which committed to developing a climate adaptation and resilience strategy. The briefing is expected to cover the anticipated impacts of climate change, highlighting the people and locations most at risk, particularly vulnerable populations such as those in low-income communities, older adults, individuals with pre-existing health conditions, and disabled people. The council considers vulnerability through environmental, personal, and social categories. The upcoming consultation on the draft climate adaptation and resilience strategy will also be discussed, with the aim of broadening awareness and encouraging contributions. The strategy aims to demonstrate how building climate resilience can reduce inequality and contribute to healthier lives, comfortable spaces, a greener borough, financial resilience, good jobs, and social connection.