Thanet’s Local Plan is formally adopted

Thanet’s Local Plan, the framework for future growth and development in the district to 2031, has been formally adopted at its Full Council meeting on Thursday 9 July.

The Local Plan, which includes the Modifications recommended in the Inspectors’ Report, sets out policies and proposals that will be used to guide both investment and decisions on development and regeneration. It details where homes, jobs, community facilities, shops and infrastructure will be delivered, as well as the type of places and environments we want to create.

It contains carbon reduction policies such as the increased use of public transport and seeking a high level of energy and water efficiency as well as net gains in biodiversity for new developments.

Thanet’s Local Plan will provide a higher level of protection for land the council has identified as unsuitable for development. It contains policies to protect the district’s natural and built environment as well as providing the statutory legal framework against which planning applications will be determined.

The Plan has been the subject of extensive consultation and members of the public have had multiple opportunities to express their views.  1,541 comments were received and the Plan has changed and evolved throughout its draft stage to incorporate some of this valuable input. 

The Local Plan has also been examined by an independent Inspector and found to be legally sound and an appropriate basis for planning in Thanet.

Leader of Thanet District Council, Cllr Rick Everitt said:

“Today’s vote is the culmination of many years of hard work and extensive consultation with residents and stakeholders to help ensure a successful future for the district.

“Our new Local Plan determines how we will deliver the homes and housing services; jobs; community facilities and infrastructure that Thanet needs over the next decade. At the same time, we aim to preserve the things that make the district special now such as our beautiful coastline and open spaces. I’m pleased we’ve agreed to adopt this Local Plan.”

The Council also adopted the Thanet Landscape Character Assessment as a Supplementary Planning Document. Both documents come into force with immediate effect. 

The Thanet Local Plan to 2031 can be found online.