England · National documents
Healthy and safe communities
Explains how planning can support health, wellbeing and safer communities, and the evidence that can inform decisions.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Healthy and safe communities (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 53-001-20190722
Consider healthy places and the services they need
The guidance identifies two connected tasks: shaping environments that support healthier lives, and providing the health and care facilities needed by the population. Both can require engagement between planning authorities, health organisations and local communities.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 53-001-20190722
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.