What is Gateway 1?
On 26 October 2026, the Council passed through Gateway 1, marking the start of the formal 30-month plan-making process.
Before reaching Gateway 1, local planning authorities must undertake preparatory work to demonstrate that they are ready to begin the 30-month plan-making process.
Gateway 1 documents
The following documents explain how the Council has prepared for the new Local Plan.
Gateway 1 Self-Assessment Summary
The Gateway 1 Self-Assessment Summary explains the work the Council has undertaken to prepare for the new Local Plan and demonstrates its readiness to begin the formal 30-month plan-making process. It covers five key areas: the Local Plan timetable, project management and governance, consultation and engagement, the anticipated content of the plan, and Strategic Environmental Assessment. Publishing the summary is a formal requirement for passing through Gateway 1. The Gateway 1 Self-Assessment Summary is available both as a downloadable PDF and on a dedicated webpage.
Gateway 1 Self Assessment Summary (PDF)
Gateway 1 Self-Assessment Summary (Webpage)
Readiness Checker for Gateway 1 Report
The Readiness Checker for Gateway 1 Report is a checklist recommended by the Government to help local planning authorities assess how prepared they are to produce a new Local Plan. It reviews progress on key activities, identifies any gaps and highlights further work needed. The Council has published a PDF Report and an Excel spreadsheet using the Government’s official Readiness Checker template.
Gateway 1 Readiness Checker Report (PDF)
Gateway 1 Readiness Checker (Excel)
Local Plan Engagement Strategy
The Local Plan Engagement Strategy explains how the Council will involve residents, businesses, community groups and other key stakeholders throughout the preparation of the new Local Plan, including how it will make consultation accessible and inclusive.
Local Plan Project Initiation Document (PID)
The Local Plan Project Initiation Document (PID) is a practical management tool designed to support the successful delivery of the Local Plan. It helps define and communicate the plan’s scope, governance, and resource needs while ensuring readiness for each stage of plan-making.
Project Initiation Document (PID) (PDF)
Local Plan Baseline Data Report
The Local Plan Baseline Data Report provides an overview of Ipswich as it is today, using key facts, figures and information from monitoring the existing Local Plan. It also considers how the Borough may change in the future, including development needs and planned infrastructure, to help identify the key issues and priorities for the new Local Plan.
What happens next?
Following Gateway 1, the Council will continue developing the evidence base, reviewing responses to the Scoping Consultation and preparing the vision, options and policies for the new Local Plan.
The next major opportunity for public involvement will be the Proposed Local Plan Content and Evidence consultation, currently scheduled for autumn 2027.
The Council will continue to update the Local Plan Timetable as preparation progresses.
Further information and participation
Further information on the preparation of the Local Plan, including opportunities to participate in consultation and engagement activities, will be made available on the Council’s website.
If you would like to be notified of future consultations, engagement opportunities and updates relating to the new Local Plan, please register online via the Ipswich Local Plan Consultation Portal or scan the QR code:
Alternatively, you can contact the Planning Policy Team by:
Email: planningpolicy@ipswich.gov.uk
Or write to:
Planning Policy Team
Ipswich Borough Council
Grafton House
15–17 Russell Road
Ipswich
IP1 2DE