Purpose

To provide endorsement of the response for submission to the South Downs National Park Authority (SNPA).

Decision

It was RESOLVED that Cabinet:

a.       Approved the submission of the Council’s response (Appendix A) to the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) in regard to their consultation on the South Downs Local Plan Consultation (Regulation 19), by 23 June 2026. 

b.       Noted that the Executive Director of Operations, in consultation with the Portfolio holder for Regulation and Enforcement, will make any minor changes required to the Council’s response (Appendix A), in advance of submission.

c.       Delegate any further amendment of the Council’s response to the Chief Executive of the Council, in consultation with Councillor Glass, the Portfolio Holder for Regulation and Enforcement, for submission by 23 June 2026.

Reasons for the Decision

·       To present to Councillors the proposed response from the Council as Planning Authority (LPA) to the South Downs Local Plan  Review Consultation (Regulation 19).

Alternative Options Considered

Option 1:

Do not respond to the consultation. This would be a missed opportunity to raise concerns about key issues affecting East Hampshire, and an opportunity to state them at examination. 

Option 2:

Respond to the consultation This is the only option that enables the Council to give its view on these proposed significant changes that affect East Hampshire.