Local Plan Options consultation starts in Bath and North East Somerset

People living in BaNES are asked to pass on their views on a range of issues including where to deliver new homes and jobs across the area and what policies are needed for addressing the climate and ecological emergencies.

Residents and businesses can have their say during a consultation period on the Local Plan Options before 8 April. The Local Plan is an important statutory document used for decision-making on development and the use of land, and when adopted will form the basis for determining planning applications until 2042.

The options, which were approved by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s cabinet, support the council’s Corporate Strategy and Economic Strategy for a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable economy.

Residents and stakeholders will be able to comment on the options proposed by responding to an interactive version of the Local Plan online, as well as taking part in a series of in-person events.

Videos will be added to the council website giving step-by-step guidance on ‘How to Comment on the Local Plan’ and explain ‘What is a Local Plan’ as well as outlining how the various options will help to deliver the council’s priorities on housing, the climate emergency and sustainable transport.

You can respond on the council website.

When the consultation closes, the issues raised in all comments and feedback will be considered and a Draft Local Plan will be produced which will be subject to consultation. It will then be submitted to the Secretary of State and examined by an independent planning inspector in 2025. If approved by the inspector, it will be adopted by the council.

More information about the development of the new Local Plan can be found on the council website