Help us to shape our Local Plan
4 February 2025
We are inviting residents, businesses, and stakeholders to share their views as part of the latest Local Plan consultation.
The 'Issues and Scope' stage of Local Plan consultation is the first step in shaping the next Local Plan, which will guide development and looks to create a place where people want to live as well as create a sense of belonging.
We are asking our Cabinet on 5 February for approval to start a 6 week consultation period in order to seek early input from the community and wider stakeholders on the issues that the Local Plan should address.
The consultation explores key issues, including housing needs, health and wellbeing, environmental protection, and sustainable transport, but at this early stage, it does not include specific development sites or policy proposals. By participating, residents have the chance to help shape a balanced plan that reflects local priorities and challenges,
Cllr Derek Tipp, Portfolio Holder for Planning, said: "The Local Plan is a vital document that shapes the future of our district. We want as many people as possible to get involved and help us create a plan that meets the needs of our communities while protecting the unique character of the New Forest.
We recognise that some topics, may raise concerns, with Government giving a strong direction on housing numbers but emphasising the needs for Local Plans to remain up to date and to progress reviews without delay. The consultation process is designed to gather vital feedback to ensure these challenges are approached collaboratively and transparently."
We will be hosting 'drop-in' sessions at locations around our communities, providing residents the opportunity to discuss the Local Plan directly with officers and will be making use of specialist digital engagement tools to reach as wide an audience as possible.
We will publish all the information for the consultation, including the dates of the drop in sessions on our website: Local Plan review - New Forest District Council
More information:
This follows the recent revisions to the Council's 'Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)', which sets out how the Council will engage with individuals, businesses, and organisations on planning matters. The revised SCI includes new measures to embrace digital engagement while continuing to value traditional consultation methods, ensuring inclusivity across all demographics.
Share this page
