Fresh draft of West Northamptonshire Local Plan published ahead of consultation in the new year

30 December 2025

West Northamptonshire Council has today (30 December) published the latest draft of its Local Plan, ahead of councillors considering proposals for public consultation at the Planning Policy Committee meeting on 8 January.

The Local Plan is a key document shaping the future of development across West Northamptonshire up to 2043. It sets out how land will be used for housing, employment, green spaces, and infrastructure, while supporting regeneration and protecting the environment. This updated draft reflects significant changes since the last consultation, including new policies on sustainability, health and wellbeing, and placemaking, alongside proposals for growth in towns and rural areas.

The Plan also includes:

• A refreshed spatial strategy supporting regeneration and brownfield development alongside support for our rural areas
• Policies to help achieve net zero and improve health outcomes.
• Enhanced protection for valued green spaces and opportunities for communities to nominate more.
• Updated guidance on housing mix, affordable homes, and employment land.

Following committee consideration, the draft plan and intention to launch a public consultation will be discussed at full Council on 19 January. A major public engagement will then launch in late January, giving residents, town and parish councils, businesses, and community groups the chance to have their say. This will run for eight weeks and include opportunities to comment on the draft plan and propose new sites, including those for Gypsy and Traveller accommodation and further Local Green Spaces.

This Local Plan is one of the most important documents we produce, setting out how we balance homes, jobs, and infrastructure while protecting our environment and creating thriving places for future generations. The views of residents, parishes, and businesses will be vital in shaping the final plan, and I strongly encourage everyone to get involved when the consultation opens in February.Cllr Thomas Manning, Cabinet Member for Planning at West Northamptonshire Council

See the agenda for the Planning Policy Committee meeting on 8 January. Further details on how to take part will be shared in the new year.