A New South Downs Local Plan

Next steps for the new South Downs Local Plan

The Regulation 19 consultation on the proposed new South Downs Local Plan closed on 23 June 2026. We received more than 2,700 representations from around 1,300 respondents and would like to thank everyone who took part.

Full details of the consultation are available here and you can continue to view the consultation document at: https://southdowns-consult.objective.co.uk

What Happens Next?

Officers are currently reviewing all consultation responses and supporting documents.

A summary of the representations received, and any proposed modifications will be considered by the Planning Committee on 12 November 2026 and by the National Park Authority on 8 December 2026, when a decision will be made on whether to submit the Local Plan for independent examination.

At this stage, consultation responses will also be published online, with personal information removed where required.

Submission for examination

Subject to the Authority’s decision in December, the Local Plan is expected to be submitted for examination before the end of 2026.

All Regulation 19 consultation responses will be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate, together with a summary of the main issues raised and the Authority’s response.

Independent examination

The Planning Inspectorate is expecting a high number of Local Plan submissions before the December deadline, so there may be some delay before examinations begin.

We currently expect confirmation of the appointed Inspector(s) and an indicative timetable in January 2027. The Inspector will decide which matters are examined and who will be invited to participate in hearing sessions.

If modifications to the new Local Plan are recommended by the Inspector, there will be a further six-week public consultation on those changes.

Stay Updated & FAQs

We will continue to provide updates as the Local Plan progresses through the examination process.

• Sign-up to receive Planning News here.
• Further information about the Local Plan process and supporting materials is available in our FAQs.