Issue - meetings

The Executive Member for Planning and Growth presented the report which sought agreement on the scoping consultation document, the approach to engagement and its distribution to the community. It was noted that the scoping consultation formed the third stage of the Local Plan process and was guided by national regulations. The consultation was scheduled to run from 11 June to 10 July 2026 to support early engagement with stakeholders and residents.

It was noted that the consultation document included 14 focused questions on key issues such as the plan’s purpose, local challenges, vision and engagement approach. Feedback received would inform the next stages of plan-making, with further reporting anticipated ahead of formal consultation in early 2027.

A communications programme, including digital and media activity, had been prepared to support participation.

The Executive Member for Planning and Growth proposed the recommendations as detailed in the report. The Executive Member for Wellbeing seconded the proposal.

The motion to support the recommendations, having been proposed and seconded, was put to the meeting and upon a vote being taken, was declared CARRIED.

RESOVLED – that Executive recommended to Council

That (A) subject to the publication of the Notice to Commence Local Plan Preparation and the Local Plan Timetable, the East Herts Local Plan – Scoping Consultation document (Appendix A) is made available to relevant stakeholders and the wider community to begin a discussion about the district’s new Local Plan, and to seek comments in accord

with the Regulations;
 

(B) Engagement on the Scoping Consultation document should commence, taking place between June 11 and July 10 2026, through a range of different forums, including online on the Council’s website;
 

(C) Any minor amendments required to the content of the Scoping Consultation document prior to the consultation period be delegated to the Director of Place in consultation with the Executive Member for Planning and Growth; and

(D) A further report detailing any feedback is prepared for Executive following engagement, with the intention of informing the Local Plan content and evidence stages of the plan-making process.