The development of Lawley is a long–term commitment by English Partnerships to promote the regeneration of the area, recognised in the adopted Wrekin Local Plan, 2001. National planning policy and the adoption of the principle to drive forward sustainable communities frames the rationale for the development of the Lawley urban extension. Telford is one of the six major foci within Regional Planning Guidance and is seen as a location for future residential development.

An outline planning application together with full Environmental Impact Assessment and Design Codes have been submitted to the Borough of Telford & Wrekin for the proposed scheme, in line with the development framework prepared for English Partnerships. The strategic plans board of the Borough of Telford & Wrekin are minded to grant approval of the application. The application is also lodged with Government Office West Midlands and is scheduled to be determined in November 2004. English Partnerships has negotiated planning gain agreements for the scheme and have agreed to the following key outcomes to be funded through this agreement:

• New Primary School
• Community Centre
• New and Improved Public Open Spaces
• Improved Local Transportation
• Sustainable Development
• Affordable Housing