South Downs Local Plan Update

The latest consultation on the new South Downs Local Plan closed on 23 June 2026.

The South Downs National Park Authority received around 2,700 comments from approximately 1,300 people and organisations. These are now being reviewed by officers.

The new Local Plan will guide how and where development takes place across the National Park over the next two decades. It will replace the current Local Plan adopted in 2019 and will address matters including housing, design, nature recovery, climate action, the rural economy and community wellbeing.

The Planning Committee and Full Authority are expected to consider the consultation responses in November and December 2026. Subject to that consideration, the plan will then be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for independent examination.

The National Park Authority hopes the new Local Plan will be adopted in 2027.

To read the full press release go to

Read more about the proposed South Downs Local Plan:
www.southdowns.gov.uk/planning-policy/new-south-downs-local-plan/