'Impressive' community response to first phase consultation on Lewes Local Plan

Local plans set out where future development will take place, such as new homes and locations for business growth, as well the local policy requirements against which future planning applications will be judged. 

This first phase of consultation, looking at sites within towns and a limited number of villages, was held during January and February, and included drop-in events in Ringmer, Seaford, Newick, Peacehaven, Cooksbridge, and Newhaven, as well as a joint event with South Downs National Park Authority in Lewes Town Hall, an exhibition and a webinar.

Councillor Laurence O'Connor, Cabinet Member for Planning, said: "We saw an impressive level of engagement during this initial phase of consultation and our thanks to all those people who gave us their feedback. The insights gathered are invaluable as we move forward in shaping the future development of our district."

In total, 1,965 individual responses were received and a higher number of responses via the online consultation platform than in the previous consultation..

Residents showed particular interest in several key themes: Spatial Strategy was the most commented upon topic, followed by Homes for All, then Natural Environment and Climate Change.

All feedback received is now being carefully considered by the council as documents are prepared for the second stage of consultation, which is anticipated in late autumn 2025.

This second phase will have a greater emphasis on more rural parts of the district, while also re-evaluating areas considered during phase one.  

Councillor O'Connor added: "We are committed to finding innovative ways to broaden our reach in the next consultation stage and are currently exploring new opportunities to engage with families and young people.

"We recognise the importance of ensuring that the Local Plan reflects the needs and aspirations of all our residents and look forward to hearing more of people's views in late autumn."

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