If you wish to sign up for further notifications about the new Ipswich Local Plan, please register online, by emailing your request to planningpolicy@ipswich.gov.uk or phone 01473 432019.
A new national plan-making system, as introduced by the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023, is due to take effect, which will require Local Plans to be produced in accordance with the new requirements. The National Planning Policy Framework and Planning Practice Guidance will also be updated to reflect the changes which local authorities will need to be in compliance with.
The Local Development Scheme sets out the timetable for the production of the new Ipswich Local Plan, and will be kept under review once key updates are made to the national planning system and guidance. Ipswich Borough Council are positively working in the early stages of preparing to produce the new Ipswich Local Plan which will cover the period up to at least 2044. A ‘call for sites’ process will run up until 1pm on 15th December 2025.
The new Ipswich Local Plan will be informed by a substantial evidence base and will be subject to multiple stages of public consultation. An independent Examination will be carried out by the Planning Inspectorate before the new Ipswich Local Plan can be considered for adoption.
What is the Local Plan?
The Local Plan guides decisions on future development proposals and addresses the needs and opportunities of the area. Topics covered include housing, commercial, infrastructure and the environment, and Local Plans also identify where development should take place and areas where development should be restricted. Councils have a statutory duty to produce a Local Plan.
The Borough total housing need requirements have increased by around 70% and the new Ipswich Local Plan must prepare to meet this.
Is there already a Local Plan?
The Council has an adopted Ipswich Borough Council Local Plan (2022), and supporting documents, which currently remain the relevant planning policies to guide development in the area. The new Ipswich Local Plan will supersede these in due course.