Discusses how government's modernisation programme with emphasis on neighbourhood renewal and social inclusion raises a number of complex issues for planners. Local authorities are now required to produce a community plan, a joint effort developed by the 'local strategic partnership' (LSP) comprising local stakeholders. Considers how the community plan will relate to the development plan, and highlights concerns that stakeholder interests may dominate the community plan. Suggests that planners will need to develop an understanding of the links between land use planning and social policy developments, as well as adapting to the new executive structures and the regional agenda. Concludes that while the promotion of social and environmental sustainability are welcome, there are elements of the agenda that are contradictory, for example strengthening the role of business interests, and planners will need to consider how to tackle these. Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) briefing papers promoting good practice in local strategies for social inclusion are available at £10 each from the LGIU, tel: 020 7554 2800.