Planning and building control

Local Plan Evidence Base

Evidence-based studies feed into Liverpool's strategic priorities and planning policies. They will also inform the new Local Plan.

The evidence base is made up of the following documents.  We will add new documents throughout the plan preparation process.

Employment Land and Premises Study

This study will help us to understand the demand and need for all types of employment in the city in the future.

It will also consider barriers that may prevent business investment.

Strategic Housing Market Needs Assessment

This will help us understand the city’s housing needs.

It will look at demand for affordable housing, and the housing needs of:

  • families with children
  • older people
  • students
  • people with disabilities
  • service families
  • Travellers
  • people who rent their homes
  • people who want to commission or build their own homes

It will also look at Houses in Multiple Occupation.

Conservation Area boundaries review and Views Study

This involves a review of designated boundaries of areas with special architectural or historic interest, and any key features to be preserved or enhanced.

Local Wildlife Sites

These are areas of land, identified locally, that are especially important for their wildlife, featuring important habitats and species.

Open Space Assessment

This will tell us how many open spaces the city has, and how good and how accessible they are.

Strategic Flood Risk Assessment 

Will look at our policies on managing flood risk and allocating land for future development.

Town Centre Uses Study 

This study will look at our retail and leisure provision across the city. 

It will tell us if we need any additional floor space. It will also give an analysis of how accessible local shops and services are.

City Centre Strategy

This will focus on the city centre’s core retail and leisure areas, and its cultural offer. 

It will help us develop a vision for a sustainable, inclusive and ‘fit for purpose’ city centre. 

Infrastructure Delivery Plan 

This will identify the strategic infrastructure needed for growth. 

Climate Change and achieving Net Zero Study

This will focus on delivering net zero carbon development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions arising from future development.

Playing Pitch Strategy

This will tell us about the playing pitches in the city, and if we have a shortfall for any sports.

Transport Study

This will provide up-to-date evidence in respect of transport infrastructure capacity.