Suffolk Local Plan Watch - Spring 2024

A mixed picture across Suffolk, in terms of plan-making progress, with Part 1 of the Babergh and Mid Suffolk Local Plan having recently been adopted, West Suffolk’s Proposed Submission consultation having recently concluded, whilst East Suffolk Council and Ipswich Borough Council have recently adopted Local Plans. In this context the December 2023 changes to the NPPF have significant consequences, limiting opportunities for any sites not allocated.

Following the Babergh and Mid Suffolk Joint Local Plan (Part 1) Adoption, Work on Part 2 of the Plan (to include site allocations and a review of settlement boundaries) continues, with a recent ‘Call for Sites’ consultation concluding, notwithstanding that Part 2 Plan is only required to identify sites to deliver 1,191 new homes in Babergh District, and 0 in Mid-Suffolk.

Ipswich Borough Council and East Suffolk continue to enjoy up-to-date Local Plans with no published timetables for review, although East Suffolk are expected to commence the initial formal stages of plan preparation in 2025.