The Local Plan Working Group guides the preparation of Middlesbrough's Local Plan and other planning documents, aiming to speed up the process and advise on the Local Development Scheme timetable. It facilitates information exchange between councillors and officers, considering strategy, growth, housing numbers, and integration with corporate plans. The group provides informal feedback on policy direction and may assist with community engagement and evidence base development. It is an advisory body, with final decisions on the Local Plan resting with the Council.