The local plan is the key statutory, long-term planning document created by local councils to guide development, manage land use, and address housing, infrastructure, and environmental needs.
Knowsley’s current local plan was most recently updated in 2016 and covers the period up to 2028, it has helped to shape high-quality housing, employment and cultural developments such as Halsnead Garden Village, East of Halewood, Earlsfield Park and Shakespeare North Playhouse.
The local plan has also allowed the Council to secure affordable homes and Section 106 funds to enhance green spaces like Finch Woods, as well as supporting employment opportunities and local businesses.
Under the Government’s new plan making regulations, it is necessary to begin the production of a new local plan before 31 December 2026 if a Council’s plan is more than five years’ old, which means that Knowsley Council must start to prepare a new local plan. The new local plan will also deliver a vision for the growth of Knowsley beyond the current local plan period of 2028.
At today’s Cabinet, Members agreed to publish a ‘Notice of Intention’ on the Council’s website, confirming that it will commence preparations for the development of new Knowsley Local Plan. Cabinet also agreed to publish a local plan timetable which sets out how the local plan will be delivered in 30 months as required by the Government’s new plan making regulations.
If councils do not begin the preparation of a new local plan when they are required to, the Government could intervene which includes having (and paying for) the Secretary of State preparing the plan on their behalf.
Public consultations will also be arranged for people to have their say and inform the local plan’s development.
Cllr Tony Brennan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said “Our local plan was produced in 2016 and covers the period up to 2028 so it is timely that a new plan is developed, particularly given how much the borough has changed over the last ten years.
“There will be lots of opportunities for residents and businesses to have their say in order to inform the development of the new local plan.
“The local plan will develop a vision for the future of Knowsley and will ensure that there are sufficient homes, employment premises, and infrastructure to support a growing population such as school places, health services, highways improvements and public transport links. The local plan will also plan a sustainable future for our town centres whilst ensuring that our most important greenspaces are protected and enhanced.”
“Please do take the opportunity to share your views when the consultations open.”
Regular updates will be shared on the Local Plan page of the Council’s website and further details about consultation events will be widely promoted including on Knowsley News and the Council’s social media channels.
You can also sign up to receive regular updates by emailing localplan@knowsley.gov.uk.