I am announcing today the publication for consultation of guidance on assessing the soundness of development plan documents (DPDs) and statements of community involvement (SCIs), and on the examination process itself. The consultation documents will be of interest to local authorities, agents, landowners, local residents and others likely to be involved in examinations of development plan documents (DPDs) and statements of community involvement (SCIs) forming part of local development frameworks produced under the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. The guidance has been produced by the planning inspectorate.

The consultation documents also include model forms and guidance notes to help focus representations on the soundness tests.

The consultation will run until 30 May 2005. Copies of the consultation documents will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses and will be available to download from the planning inspectorate's website at: www.planning-inspectorate.gov.uk.