Purpose

To consider commencement of new Local Plan for Wiltshire and its broad scope.

Decision

Proposals

That Cabinet approves:

1. The preparation of the Wiltshire Local Plan in line with the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026.

1. The timetable for the preparation of the Wiltshire Local Plan, as set out in Appendix 2, and its publication alongside the publication of a Notice of Intention to Commence the Wiltshire Local Plan stating that the local plan will incorporate the minerals and waste plan by 30 June 2026.

1. The council’s Local Development Scheme be updated to clarify that the accommodation needs of Gypsies and Travellers will be addressed through the Wiltshire Local Plan and that the separate Gypsies and Travellers Development Plan Document will not be prepared.

1. The broad content of the Draft Local Plan Engagement Strategy as set out in Appendix 4.

That Cabinet authorises the Director of Planning, Economy and Climate, in consultation with the Director for Legal and Governance and Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning to:

A) Take all necessary steps for the publication of the Local Plan timetable, its monthly review and update and publication of the Notice of Intention to Commence the Wiltshire Local Plan.

B) Take all steps, as necessary:

(i)             to prepare for and undertake the Scoping Consultation including publicising the consultation, completion of all associated documents and finalising the engagement activities;

(ii)           prepare and publish a consultation report following completion of the consultation; and

(iii)         finalise and publish the Local Plan Engagement Strategy.

C) Take all necessary steps to achieve the approval, submission and publication of documents for Gateway 1 self-assessment, Gateway 2 and Gateway 3 as set out in legislation.

Reason for Decision:

To comply with new plan-making regulations, as set out in the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026, and ensure that the preparation of a comprehensive up to date local plan for Wiltshire is put in place as soon as possible.

To agree appropriate delegations to support the council’s ability to meet the government prescribed plan-making period of 30-months and progress and complete the first formal scoping consultation.