Council outlines next steps in Eastleigh Borough Local Plan
Plan will determine where future development takes place
The next steps in Eastleigh Borough’s Local Plan, that will determine where future development takes place, have been set out. This follows the Government’s recent updates to the national planning system which have changed the timetable, although the intended date for adoption of the plan remains the same.
Eastleigh’s Local Plan will establish how many new homes and jobs are needed, where development should take place in the Borough, and how areas of countryside will be protected and enhanced.
During the winter of 2024-25, the Council carried out an ‘Issues and Options’ public consultation where residents, businesses and stakeholders shared their views on key planning issues. The responses provided valuable insights to help shape the plan. Alongside this engagement, the Council is continuing to gather the technical evidence required to support the Local Plan.
In March 2026, the Government introduced a new system for preparing Local Plans. As a result, the Council is now required to formally begin the process under these updated regulations. This includes publishing a notice to commence the Local Plan under the new system, as well as a revised timetable for its preparation. However, all previous work by the Council, together with the results of the consultation, will continue to inform the Local Plan. The transition represents a change in process rather than a restart, ensuring that earlier feedback and evidence continue to guide the Council as the plan is prepared.
The next stage will be a ‘Scoping Consultation’ which will get under way in late August and run through September. This will invite feedback on the key issues the Local Plan should address, as well as how the Council should engage with communities during its preparation. While it will revisit some topics covered previously, it will also provide updated information and seek additional input.
Following this stage, the Council will identify and consult on its preferred development sites. This phase is now planned for June 2027, allowing sufficient time to complete the initial stages required under the new planning system and ensure that all supporting evidence is in place.
Leader of Eastleigh Borough Council, Councillor Keith House, said: “Thank you to everyone who has taken part in the consultation on Eastleigh Borough’s Local Plan. Despite the national changes, the plan remains on schedule and will continue to focus on creating well-designed communities supported by appropriate facilities, transport links and infrastructure. The valuable input from residents and stakeholders will inform the final document, and there will be a further opportunity to comment before the plan is submitted.”
A further round of public consultation on the full draft Local Plan is expected in June 2028. The plan will then be submitted for independent examination before adoption. The Council is still aiming to adopt the new Local Plan in Spring 2029.
Find out more at www.eastleigh.gov.uk/localplan