The new Local Plan
We are preparing a new Local Plan to replace the current documents that make up the current Local Development Framework.
The new Local Plan will guide how Newark and Sherwood grows and develops in the years ahead and will follow the new nationally agreed Local Plan process. It is intended to be in place by 2029.
It will:
- cover a period of at least 15 years
- set out what can be built and where building should take place
National planning policies have changed, and Local Plans need to be updated to reflect this. The Government has asked councils to prepare new plans, even where local government reorganisation is taking place, to ensure an up-to-date plan is in place. The new Local Plan will be taken forward by the new unitary authority after April 2028.
We are currently carrying out a consultation to seek views on the new Local Plan.
You can complete the online consultation survey here.
The purpose of a Local Plan
Local Plans hold important policies to support environmental protection, jobs and the economy. They also help to decide where we need infrastructure for services such as roads, schools and health.
A Local Plan also covers:
- open and green spaces
- housing
- employment
- retail
- provision for leisure facilities
The Local Plan will address key issues facing the district, including the need for more homes, challenges facing town centres, improving access to services in rural areas, and responding to climate change and flood risk.
The Local Plan process
The process of developing a Local Plan takes several years, and we are currently in the scoping stage of the process.
Local Plans are developed for all areas across the UK following a new nationally agreed system, and public consultation will take place as the plan progresses.
Scoping Consultation
As part of this early stage, we are carrying out a scoping consultation to seek views on:
- the key issues facing the district
- what the Local Plan should include
- how people would like to be consulted as the plan progresses
This first stage of consultation provides an early opportunity to help shape the plan before detailed proposals are developed.
This includes exploring clearer, more engaging ways to present information and greater use of digital tools, while continuing to offer traditional ways to take part.
The scoping consultation runs from Wednesday, 1 July to Friday 31 July 2026, closing at 5pm on Friday, 31 July 2026.
Find supporting information and documentation for the Local Plan consultation below:
How to take part
You can take part in the consultation online or by visiting council offices and all libraries in the district to view the information and share your views.
Documents are available at:
- Castle House, Great North Road, Newark, NG24 1BY
- Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
- Ollerton Advice Office, Sycamore Road, New Ollerton, NG22 9PS
- Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 4:30pm
You can complete the online consultation survey here.
Pre-plan making stage
We have formally announced our intention to commence plan making and have published our Local Plan timetable.
We will gather information on various topics, including:
- housing needs
- employment
- environment
- infrastructure
A 'call for sites' exercise has already been undertaken to inform the Strategic Housing and Employment Land Availability Assessment.
We are currently inviting further site submissions as part of a second call for sites. Submissions can be made between Wednesday, 1 July and Friday, 30 July 2026. Complete a call for sites submission here.
Plan making stage
We will develop a draft Local Plan, carrying out two rounds of public consultation:
- consultation on proposed plan content and evidence
- draft proposed Local Plan, including a vision, strategy, policy and site allocations
Examination process
The draft proposed Local Plan, along with all evidence base documents and consultation responses will be submitted for examination.
The Planning Inspectorate will appoint an independent Inspector to assess the plan's soundness and legal compliance. The Inspector may hold hearings to discuss the Plan with us and interested parties.
Adoption
The Inspector will provide a report, potentially recommending modifications to the Plan.
We will review the Inspector's report and, if satisfied formally adopt the Local Plan.
Implementation
Once adopted, the Local Plan will guide planning decisions and development management across Newark and Sherwood.
Local Plans are typically reviewed every five years to ensure they remain up to date.