The Planning Inspectorate is an Independent Executive Agency of Government operating principally from Bristol with a Welsh base in Cardiff. It manages casework on planning and related applications and appeals, including Developments of National Significance and examines Local Development Plans (LDPs) using a team of dedicated Welsh Inspectors and administrators.

Welsh Government Minister Minister for Housing and Local Government stated that (in wales) “Planning law and policy has diverged and continues to diverge at an accelerating rate from England, in order to meet the unique needs of communities and businesses in Wales” . She has therefore instructed officials to begin work on a separate, dedicated service for Wales which is expected to be in place by the end of the current term of Government.