Our Local Plan

We are currently preparing a new Local Plan which sets out how the Borough will develop to 2043. As part of the process for preparing our new Local Plan, the council recently consulted on a Draft Local Plan.

What is the Draft Local Plan?

The Draft Local Plan sets out the emerging spatial vision for the borough, the strategic objectives that will guide future growth, and an outline of the policy framework that will shape development over the plan period. It also presents early spatial options, topic-based policy directions and broad locations for potential growth. 

At this stage, the document is high level and seeks views on the overall approach for the emerging Local Plan and any additional considerations that should inform the development of a more detailed Local Plan anticipated later in the year. 

The consultation ran from 12 February to 26 March 2026 and was held in accordance with Regulation 18 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012. Following this Regulation 18 stage, all representations will be carefully considered. A further opportunity to comment will be available at the Regulation 19 (Publication) stage before the Plan is submitted for independent examination.

View the Key Documents

Draft Local Plan

Sustainability Appraisal

Online Draft Local Plan Policies Maps

Call for Sites

Following the two Call for Sites held in Spring and Summer 2025, the Council undertook a third Call for Sites in February - March 2026, inviting any interested party to put forward land they believe may be suitable for housing or economic development. You can find out more on the Local Plan Portal.

What is a Local Plan?

A Local Plan sets out a plan for future sustainable development in the Borough:

• identifies key areas of land for development to deliver the homes, jobs and services needed
• includes policies against which all planning applications are considered

It provides the basis for what, where and when development can happen.

The current Local Plan, alongside Neighbourhood Plans and the Minerals and Waste Local Plan, will continue to be used to determine planning applications until the updated Local Plan is completed.

Why does the Local Plan need updating?

The current Local Plan commits to a review of the plan being submitted before October 2026. Planning legislation has also changed so updating the adopted Local Plan will help ensure it reflects local priorities and legislation. A number of technical studies are being undertaken to inform Our Local Plan. These can be found in the Emerging Evidence Base.