The North East of England Plan, the revised Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS), has set out a new vision to provide jobs, homes and infrastructure in the region up to 2021.

As well as providing more homes, the plan also focuses on delivering more jobs and infrastructure creating a ‘sustainable social and economic renaissance’  in the region.

The Plan also addresses major transport, waste and environmental issues in the North East.

A modern transport system that supports the economy and improves accessibility to and within the region is a priority. Spending on the region's transport network has risen by 30 per cent in the last five years from £481m to £623m. The plan promotes better public transport, improved parking and tackles congestion problems.

It also puts tackling climate change high on the agenda to support national targets to reduce CO2 by 60% by 2050. It sets an interim 10% renewable energy target until councils are able to bring forward their own targets for new developments.

Publication of the plan follows comprehensive public consultation and an independent examination process.

Communities Minister Baroness Andrews said:
"This plan is about realising the full potential of the North East through major social and economic renaissance. We want to deliver a high quality of life for present and future generations by addressing housing shortages, strengthening the economy, modernising transport networks, protecting the environment and tackling climate change.

"This North East Plan sets out a vision for reducing the social and economic gap between the North East and other regions while building upon its distinctive strengths and assets."