New Northumberland Local Plan – Scoping Consultation

New Northumberland Local Plan – Scoping Consultation
Wednesday 20 May to Wednesday 1 July
We are starting work on a new Local Plan for the County.
While the current adopted Local Plan provides a long-term framework for development up to 2036, it is important that we plan ahead to ensure our planning policies continue to reflect the changing needs and aspirations of our communities.
The new Local Plan will help us:
  • Plan for new homes, including affordable housing;
  • Support businesses, job growth, and investment;
  • Ensure the right infrastructure is in the right places, and
  • Protect our natural and historic environment.
As we are in the early stages of plan preparation, we are inviting views on the key issues and priorities that the new Local Plan should address. Early feedback will help shape the scope, focus and direction of the Plan from the outset.
We are additionally inviting comments on our draft Engagement Strategy. This sets out how we propose to engage with stakeholders as we prepare the Local Plan.
Alongside this, the Council is also preparing a new complementary document, the Northumberland Housing Design Standards Supplementary Plan (previously referred to as a Design Code). This will provide requirements and guidance relating to the design of new homes and residential areas. We are also seeking comments on the draft project brief for the Housing Design Standards Supplementary Plan.
For background information and details of both consultations, visit our website at: nland.uk/LocalPlanAndDesignStandards.
As the Plan may have implications for County Council services and assets, we would welcome any comments relevant to your area of responsibility.
Please send your comments to planningstrategy@northumberland.gov.uk by Wednesday 1 July 2026.
We would welcome ongoing dialogue as we prepare the plan. If you would like to discuss any aspect of the Plan, please contact the Planning Policy Team at the above email address.
Share this article