Cornwall Local Plan Update 2028 and What It Means for Development

Cornwall Council has recently updated its timetable for the preparation of the new Local Plan, with adoption now anticipated by the end of 2028. This revised timeline reflects recent changes to planning regulations and introduces a longer than expected gap before a new development framework is in place.

The current Local Plan, adopted in 2016, was based on significantly lower housing requirements than those now confirmed.  As a result, the delay in adopting a new plan means that the Local Plan is increasingly out of date.

This has important implications for housing delivery. With no immediate mechanism to allocate sufficient new sites, the gap between housing supply and demand is likely to widen, adding further pressure to an already constrained market.

However, this period also presents clear opportunities.

In the absence of an up-to-date Local Plan, there is often greater flexibility within the planning system. This can create favourable conditions for speculative development, particularly on sites located at the edge of existing settlements where proposals can be justified against current housing need.

In addition, the extended plan making process provides a valuable window for landowners and developers to promote sites for future allocation. Engaging at the right stages of the Local Plan process is critical to securing long term development potential.

Understanding site suitability, preparing robust evidence and submitting timely representations can significantly influence whether land is included in future allocations.

Laurence Associates specialise in assessing land potential, preparing planning applications and guiding clients through the Local Plan process. With extensive experience across Cornwall, the team can provide strategic advice tailored to your site and objectives.

If you are considering the development potential of your land, now is the time to act. Early engagement can make a meaningful difference to future outcomes.

Contact Laurence Associates to discuss how we can support your next steps.

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