The council began the process on 30 October 2026, with a government-mandated deadline of 30 months for adoption. This initiative aims to ensure the plan is up-to-date and responsive to the needs of the area and its communities. The published timetable details the various stages and activities involved, allowing the council to monitor progress and adherence to the 30-month timeframe. Adjustments have been made to accommodate the implications of the August 2026 National Planning Policy Framework, additional site submissions from a recent scoping consultation, and to avoid pre-election periods.
Recognising the complexity of local plan preparation, the council has established robust project management and governance arrangements. The Local Plan and Planning Policy Task Group (LP&PPTG), composed of elected members and chaired by the Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing Delivery & Communication, meets regularly to oversee progress. Minutes from these meetings are reported to and agreed by the Cabinet. A Planning Implementation Document (PID) has also been reviewed and updated.
Public consultation is a cornerstone of the process, ensuring the local plan reflects community needs. Early planning for consultation aims to inform residents and stakeholders, enabling them to influence the area's development. A scoping consultation, held from 2 September to 23 September 2026, sought views on key issues, plan content, and communication preferences.
A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is also underway, as legally required, to evaluate the environmental effects of the plan and its alternatives. Consultants AECOM Ltd have been appointed for this task, with an interim report expected. The council is also assessing sites submitted through the 'Call for Sites' process from 2023, 2025, and the recent September consultation.
Residents can stay updated on the Local Plan process by registering their contact details on the council's website or by visiting the dedicated section for regular updates.
