The local planning authority must keep under review the matters which may be expected to affect the development of their area or the planning of its development.
These matters include—
the principal physical, economic, social and environmental characteristics of the area of the authority;
the principal purposes for which land is used in the area;
the size, composition and distribution of the population of the area;
the communications, transport system and traffic of the area;
any other considerations which may be expected to affect those matters;
such other matters as may be prescribed or as the Secretary of State (in a particular case) may direct.
The matters also include—
any changes which the authority think may occur in relation to any other matter;
the effect such changes are likely to have on the development of the authority's area or on the planning of such development.
The local planning authority may also keep under review and examine the matters mentioned in subsections (2) and (3) in relation to any neighbouring area to the extent that those matters may be expected to affect the area of the authority.
In exercising a function under subsection (4) a local planning authority must consult with the local planning authority for the neighbouring area in question.
If a neighbouring area is in Wales references to the local planning authority for that area must be construed in accordance with Part 6.