Evaluates the content of the draft "Planning Policy Statement 6 : planning for town centres" (PPS6) which outlines government commitment to promoting town centre growth. Outlines differences between the existing PPG6 and the draft PPS6. Key proposals in the draft PPS6 include: a pro-active role for planners in promoting town centre growth and regeneration in a sustainable manner; for regional and local authorities to plan growth distribution to avoid over-concentration by larger centres;and the promotion of smaller centres where there are gaps in service provision. Regional spatial strategies will play an important role in helping to identify where growth is going to occur. The relaxation of the sequential test on extension to large stores is also proposed. It is suggested that the proposals outlined in draft PPS6 would increase planning workload. The consultation period closes on 15 March 2004.The draft PPS6 may be viewed at www.odpm.gov.uk.