Plans setting out where new homes and development could be built across Welwyn Hatfield in the coming years have reached the final consultation stage.
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council has published the final consultation version of its proposed Local Plan, which will shape development across the borough for years to come.
Councillor Rose Grewal, leader of the council and executive member for planning, said: "Our Local Plan is vital to the future prosperity of Welwyn Hatfield, giving residents, businesses and investors greater certainty about how our borough will grow and develop in the years ahead.
"In light of the changes that local government reorganisation will bring, it is important that Welwyn Hatfield sets out its vision for how the borough should evolve and establishes a policy framework that ensures new development is directed to sustainable locations, is of high design quality, respects the character and sense of place of our neighbourhoods, and is underpinned by the necessary infrastructure requirements."
The proposed Regulation 19 Local Plan represents the outcome of years of work and consultations with residents, businesses, landowners, community organisations, and statutory bodies.
It will be reviewed by the council’s Cabinet Planning and Parking Panel on September 3, before Cabinet on September 8, and Full Council on September 16.
If approved, a formal six-week consultation will follow, focusing on the plan’s legal compliance and soundness.
Councillor Sandreni Bonfante, deputy leader of the council and executive member for climate change, said: "Our new Local Plan will provide greater certainty about where growth should happen and help to ensure it is delivered in a coordinated, sustainable way, supported by high-quality development standards.
"We are keen to hear from local residents, businesses and other stakeholders when the consultation opens.
"Your feedback will help us ensure the plan is ready for examination, so please take the opportunity to read the documents and sign up for updates so that you are ready to share your views."
Following the consultation, the plan is expected to undergo independent examination during 2027.
A government-appointed planning inspector will review the evidence, representations, and overall soundness of the plan before making recommendations.
The council will then decide whether to formally adopt the plan based on those recommendations.
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