The Local Plan 2012-2027

The Council is preparing a new Local Plan for West Lancashire. This new plan will guide planning and development in the Borough until 2027. Once adopted, it will supersede the current West Lancashire Replacement Local Plan 2001-2016. We consulted upon a draft ('Preferred Options') version of the plan during January and February 2012, and hope that the final plan will be adopted by mid-2013.

Download the Local Plan Preferred Options document (Adobe PDF format, 3.5mb)

Until autumn 2011, we were preparing a 'Core Strategy' document, as part of a 'Local Development Framework' (LDF). However, national planning policy changed in March 2012 with the government's publication of the National Planning Policy Framework (external link) (NPPF). Rather than mentioning LDFs, the NPPF only refers to 'Local Plans'. Our move to preparing a Local Plan thus reflects the change in national policy.

The work done for the LDF is still relevant to the Local Plan. The Local Plan includes what was previously Core Strategy policy, but it now also includes more detailed policies and site-specific allocations. The Local Plan is intended to deliver sustainable development whilst reflecting the needs of local communities.

The public are encouraged and asked to get involved at each stage of document preparation through our consultation events.

You can find out more about the Local Plan by using the links below: