The Local Development Scheme 2021 sets out the Council's work programme for the preparation of new planning policy documents, together with a description of their contents. This is updated from time to time to reflect progress with existing policy documents and the inclusion of new ones in the work programme.
In order to provide the most up-to-date evidence based information and ensure comprehensive community engagement and consultation, the Preferred Option Report stage has been re-scheduled for later in the year. It is anticipated that the consultation will take place from October to December 2022.
On 4 November 2021 the Council's Cabinet approved an updated programme for the New Local Plan 2020-2040, summarised below:-
| Process Stage | Proposed Completion Date |
|---|---|
| Commencement | July 2017 |
| Issues and Options Report | July 2018 to April 2020 |
| Preferred Options Report | June and July 2022 |
| Formal publication of the proposed new plan | July to September 2023 |
| Submission of the proposed new plan to the Planning Inspectorate | November 2023 |
| Examination of the proposed new plan | February 2024 |
| Adoption of the new local plan | October 2024 |
Why is the New Local Plan delayed?
The Preferred Option stage of the New Local Plan has been delayed until later in the year in order to include the most up-to-date evidence based information, such as completions and commitments as at March 2022, and avoid community engagement and consultation during the Summer holiday period. In addition this will allow the authority to consider any information on planning reforms emerging through the Government’s Levelling Up agenda.
When will the Preferred Option consultation take place?
It is anticipated that the consultation will take place from October to December 2022.
Will any other dates in the timetable change?
No. At this stage it is anticipated that the rest of the New Local Plan timetable will meet the dates set out above, following on from the Preferred Option Report consultation stage.
What stage is the New Local Plan at now?
The Council is currently preparing for the Preferred Option Report consultation stage.
Where can I find out more information about the New Local Plan?
Can I still submit a site for consideration through the New Local Plan?
The Call for Sites process is still open, and we are currently accepting new submissions - Call for Sites (including Brownfield Land) - Consultation
Sites submitted before 30 June 2022 will be considered through the Preferred Option process. Any site submitted after this date will be considered at the next stage of the Plan.