Local Plan timetable published

A Local Plan shapes how land is used and how places will change and develop in the future.

A Local Plan ensures that future development takes place using a planned approach across the Borough and takes into account the needs of local people in terms of housing and infrastructure. The Council is required to prepare a local plan that guides how the borough should be developed over at least a 15-year period. A new plan-making system was formally introduced at the end of March 2026, alongside the publication of updated regulations and national guidance.

The Council adopted the current Local Plan (Part One) Strategic Policies in 2015 and the Local Plan (Part Two) Land Allocations and Detailed Policies in 2019. The current plan needs to be updated by 2030 and to address the increased requirement for housing in the borough following the Government’s revised method of calculating Local Housing Need.

The Council had been pursuing a local plan under the legacy system of plan making which runs until the end of 2026. Given the risks of meeting this deadline, or submitting a plan that may not pass examination, and that further revisions to national planning policy are expected later this year, the Cabinet Member for Homes and Planning has decided that the Council will now switch to the new plan-making system.

The first stage is termed ‘getting ready’ and this includes issuing the notice to commence and a timetable, which was done on 12 June 2026. Following the notice being  published there is a minimum of four months before the Council can reach the Gateway 1 stage. In line with Government expectations the Council must then move forward to adopt a plan within a 30-month timescale although this period can be shortened.

Consultation data gathered last year will be used to inform the plan although it is recognised some elements may need updating. The consultation presented options for accommodating new housing and employment development including a potential Green Belt review. The consultation also sought comments on how to change current local plan policies and views on the evidence base.

Councillor Christine Warner, Cabinet Member for Homes and Planning, said:

“Representations from more than 2,700 people and organisations were received last year. Comments made will prove useful to help guide the ongoing work on the local plan moving forward.

“We are now moving to the new system and ensuring it is based around firm evidence to empower decisions.”

The Council will regularly update the timetable, incorporating changes following any new guidance issued by Government.

The Council's Cabinet will be updated on the plans next week (15 July)

Further details: 

https://planningpolicy.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/new-local-plan/local-plan-timetable