The existing regional spatial strategy (RPG13) (external link) was prepared as regional planning guidance. It became the regional spatial strategy and, therefore, part of the development plan under the terms of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (external link).
In the existing regional spatial strategy Wigan is in the North West Metropolitan Area (Policy SD1).
The regional spatial strategy is under review. A draft revised regional spatial strategy (external link) has been submitted to Government Office for the North West. In the draft revised regional spatial strategy Wigan is in the Manchester city region.
An Examination-in-Public (external link) was held in late 2006/early 2007. The report of the independent inspector from HM Planning Inspectorate (external link) will be submitted to the Government Office. The Government Office will then publish changes to the regional spatial strategy for consultation. The revised regional spatial strategy will be adopted in 2008.