Cabinet green light for next Lewes District Local Plan consultation

Local plans are evidence led, with information collected informing where new development - such as homes, employment space and community facilities - is appropriate and where it is not.

Based on the government's formula for calculating housing need, the district is required to plan for approximately 15,000 homes over the plan period ending in 2042 for its plan area.

However, the council's spatial strategy is only able to identify a housing requirement of approximately 8,570 new homes during this period. This figure is based on evidence and reflects the constraints impacting the local plan area - such as borders with the South Downs National Park and the sea.

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said: "We are consulting with our community on the next phase of the Local Plan, and remain clear that without major change in government policy and significant financial commitment, the top-down national formula target is entirely unreasonable.

"Our position is underpinned by the most thorough analysis, and we urge everyone to contribute to the consultation to ensure all voices are heard."

The consultation will start during next week and run until February 28, 2026. For more details visit

Lewes Local Plan phase 2 consultation

To receive an instant notification of when it goes live, please register at: planningpolicyconsult.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/system/register

Paper copies of the consultation documents will be available from a range of community venues, including leisure centres over the Christmas break and council offices in the new year. A video explaining the Local Plan and this current stage of consultation will also be available via the portal. And a series of consultation drop-in events will take place in late January and early February 2026.

Councillor Laurence O'Connor, Cabinet Member for Planning and Infrastructure, said: "This is a crucial opportunity for people to give us their views and help us refine the Local Plan before it moves to the next stage. We are committed to an evidence-based approach that balances housing need with the substantial physical and environmental restrictions of our area."

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