An eight-week consultation begins today as the National Park invites people to have their say on how and where development takes place.

The award-winning South Downs Local Plan is being reviewed to ensure it is up-to-date and addresses important issues such as nature recovery, climate change, affordable housing and helping local communities thrive.

The public consultation of the Local Plan Review starts on 20 January and will run until 17 March. This is the main opportunity for people to help shape the final Plan, so the National Park Authority is inviting comments from local communities, stakeholders and the development sector.  This feedback will then help shape the next version of the Local Plan, which will be published in 2026 ahead of its submission for examination by an independent Inspector.  Once the new Local Plan is adopted in 2027, it will be used to help decide all planning applications in the National Park.

Responses to the consultation can be made in the following ways:

• Online: Using the consultation platform to view and give feedback on the draft revised Local Plan at https://sdnpalocalplanreview.commonplace.is/
• Email: planningpolicy@southdowns.gov.uk
• In writing: Planning Policy Team, South Downs Centre, North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9DH

You can also find out more at one of the Local Plan Review drop-in events at:

• Midhurst – Wednesday, 22 January between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at the South Downs Centre Memorial Hall, North Street, GU29 9DH
• Twyford – Saturday, 25 January between 2pm and 5pm at Twyford Village Hall, Hazeley Road, Twyford, Winchester SO21 1QY
• Amberley – Tuesday, 28 January between 3.30pm and 7.30pm. Amberley Church Hall, St Michael’s Amberley, Church Street, Amberley, Arundel BN18 9ND.
• Petersfield – Wednesday, 29 January between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at Festival Hall, Heath Road, GU31 4EA
• Liphook – Saturday, 1 February between 2pm and 5pm at Liphook Church Hall, Liphook Church, Church Rd, Liphook, GU30 7SQ.
• Lewes – Wednesday, 5 February between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at Lewes Town Hall, High Street, BN7 2QS and Saturday, 15 February 1.30-4pm at Cliffe Hall, 28 Cliffe High Street, BN7 2AH
• Petworth – Wednesday, 12 February between 3.30pm and 7.30pm at Leconfield Hall, Market Square, Petworth, GU28 0AH.

Further information about the Local Plan Review, including supporting evidence studies are available at:  www.southdowns.gov.uk/local-plan-review  A recorded virtual webinar will also be made available online to explain the review and how people can get involved.