The Local Plan system has recently changed, affecting how Local Plans are prepared, including the timetable, evidence requirements, and approaches to engagement and consultation. The new regulations (Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026) came into force on 25 March 2026. This means we have had to review and replace our original plan‑making timetable to ensure we meet the new legal requirements

The first stage of the new process was for the Council to publish a Notice to Commence Preparation of the Lancaster District Local Plan and a Timetable for the preparation process. We did this on 7 May 2026.  

Local Plan Scoping Consultation

This Scoping Consultation is the second step. The regulations require us to carry out a 3 week consultation at this stage to seek views on the following:

1. What matters are relevant to the preparation of the plan, including what it should contain?
2. How should we engage with you during preparation of the Local Plan?

We are also taking this opportunity to seek your views on the following: 

1. The area to be covered by the new Local Plan 
2. The Local Plan Evidence
3. Where should new development go?
4. Have we captured what you have told us so far?

We are asking for your nominations on the following:

1. Call for Sites
2. Local Green Spaces

Our consultation period is extended to 6 weeks and runs from 8 June 2026 to 20 July 2026.

Please take a look at the Local Plan Hub to find out more and to 'Have Your Say' >>>>>>>>

Stay informed

To stay informed please sign up to local plan mailing list 

Approved data standard

We must follow the approved data standard to publish our local plan and plan timetable so that we meet the requirements of the Planning Data (England) Regulations 2026. This data is provided under the Open Government Licence.

1. Lancaster District Local Plan timetable (CSV, 2KB)
2. Lancaster District Plan Data (CSV, 1KB)