New Forest District Council’s Local Plan Review reaches a significant milestone with the Regulation 18 Spatial Options and Policy Direction consultation document scheduled for consideration by Cabinet on 4th February 2026. Subject to Cabinet approval, the six-week public consultation will commence on 6th February and run until 20th March 2026, providing stakeholders with the opportunity to shape the district’s development strategy for the period 2025-2043. This consultation document presents the Council’s emerging vision, preferred policy directions, and strategic growth options for addressing future housing, employment, infrastructure, and environmental needs across the district outside the National Park, whilst acknowledging the substantial challenges posed by the government’s significantly increased housing targets and the district’s unique environmental constraints.
“This represents a pivotal moment for landowners and developers to engage with the spatial strategy that will guide New Forest’s growth over the next two decades,” states Jonathan Leigh, Associate Director at Chapman Lily Planning. “With the Council outlining a requirement to plan for 1,254 new homes annually the consultation presents various spatial options including growth focused on towns and villages, strategic development locations, and opportunities across the district sub-areas. Early engagement at this stage allows stakeholders to influence the framework before sites are formally allocated in the detailed draft Local Plan.”
Call us for more information on how Chapman Lily Planning can help promote your land through the Spatial Options consultation and Local Plan process. Our experienced team provides comprehensive support through site assessment, strategic representation, and technical submissions to maximise the potential for your land interests within New Forest District Council’s emerging spatial strategy, with consultation responses required by the 20th March 2026 deadline.
