The Local Plan Committee of North West Leicestershire Council met on Monday 29 June 2026 to discuss the East Midlands Freeport Strategic Infrastructure and Contributions Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and the review of the 2017 Good Design Guide. The meeting's agenda focused on adopting a new SPD to guide infrastructure contributions for the East Midlands Freeport and formally withdrawing an outdated design guide.

East Midlands Freeport Strategic Infrastructure and Contributions SPD

The committee was scheduled to consider the formal adoption of the East Midlands Freeport Strategic Infrastructure and Contributions Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This document, presented by Tom James, Interim Planning Policy Team Manager, aims to ensure the coordinated delivery and funding of strategic transport infrastructure required to support the development of the three East Midlands Freeport (EMF) sites: East Midlands Airport and Gateway Industrial Cluster (EMAGIC), Ratcliffe on Soar Power Station, and East Midlands Intermodal Park (EMIP).

The SPD outlines a framework for developers to contribute towards this infrastructure, either financially or through works in kind. It details the policy context, including the National Planning Policy Framework and relevant policies from the North West Leicestershire Local Plan. The report highlighted that the SPD is not part of the development plan itself but will be a material planning consideration.

Extensive consultation on the draft SPD took place between March and April 2026, with 32 responses received from various stakeholders. The report detailed modifications made to the SPD in response to these comments, including clarifications on the role of the EMF Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP), which will provide further detail on specific infrastructure needs, costs, and delivery timelines. The SPD acknowledges that limited weight will be given to it until the IDP is published and endorsed.

The report also addressed potential risks, including the deadline for adopting SPDs by 30 June 2026, after which a new system of Supplementary Plans will be introduced. The adoption of the SPD is seen as crucial for ensuring coordinated infrastructure delivery and avoiding delays. The recommendation was that the Local Plan Committee adopt the East Midlands Freeport Strategic Infrastructure and Contributions SPD.

Review of the 2017 Good Design Guide for North West Leicestershire SPD

Chris Elston, Head of Planning and Infrastructure, presented a report concerning the Council's Good Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) from 2017. Following the adoption of a new Good Design Guide for North West Leicestershire in April 2026, the committee was asked to formally withdraw the 2017 SPD with immediate effect. This action is intended to provide clarity and is considered best practice. The new guide incorporates guidance on green infrastructure, sustainable drainage, biodiversity, energy consumption, and sustainable construction.