Why we have an Options consultation
An options consultation is an important statutory step (known as a Regulation 18 consultation) that all local authorities have to take in the development of any Local Plan. It is the first time that the developing Local Plan (or Options Document) is presented in any detail to the public, and it includes options that we invite you to comment on.
How this consultation fits into the Local Plan development process
The Options Consultation is Stage 3 in the 5-stage engagement process we use to develop a new Local Plan. View more detail of the process so far.
- Our approach: Local Plan Engagement and Communication Strategy
- Stage 1: Launch (October to November 2022)
- Stage 2: Targeted engagement (January to September 2023)
Our Local Plan Options consultation took place from 12 February to 8 April 2024, with an extension until 16 April 2024.
What our consultation involved
This consultation aimed to gather public input on future development needs, including housing, jobs, and policies addressing climate and ecological emergencies.
Consultation documents
The consultation documents consisted of:
- An Options Document (including appendices)
- Evidence Base documents (technical studies and data which inform policy decisions)
- Topic papers (covering broad themes, such as Housing or Transport)
- Supporting documents
Consultation format
The Options Document set out options, or reasonable alternatives for addressing the identified needs and policy approaches, to help deliver healthy and sustainable places. These were set out as follows:
- Policy Options to describe how we are refining our approach to issues such as climate change, protecting our heritage and building vibrant, well-connnected communities.
- Site Options to offer possible plans of potential sites in our area, to bring forward new development to meet our housing and employment needs.
Questionnaires embedded in the document with each option presentation offered the opportunity to express preferences between alternatives, or comment on policy and site suggestions.
Support to understand the issues
We produced extensive material and opportunities to support public engagement with the consultation, in the form of video commentaries, public events and a and webinar. View recordings below.
Overview
- The complete playlist of our Local Plan videos
- The purpose and contents of the Local Plan
- How to get involved in shaping the Local Plan
Topic areas of the Plan
Site options
Webinar recording
Consultation response
We received over 7,000 representations, demonstrating significant public engagement.
View the consultation feedback report
This feedback will be instrumental in shaping the Draft Local Plan, ensuring it aligns with the community's needs and aspirations.