The first stage of consultation for the new Local Plan is scheduled to begin in January 2027. The council anticipates producing a draft Local Plan in 2028, with adoption planned for 2029, following consultation and examination by a Government-appointed Planning Inspector. These timings and the overall process are dictated by Government legislation.
A previous attempt to create a new Local Plan under an older framework was stalled due to delays in receiving housing targets from the Greater London Authority. After these targets were received, the council's request for a six-month extension to complete the plan under the legacy system was denied by the Government. Consequently, the council has now commenced the process under the new planning framework.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Bromley’s Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, expressed disappointment regarding the need to restart the process due to external delays and the refused extension. She stated, “We are extremely disappointed that Bromley is required to start the Local Plan process again under the new system due to delays beyond our control in the publication of the emerging London Plan housing targets and the Government's refusal to give us a six month extension to allow us to complete the process under the legacy system. However, we will now press ahead with haste under the new system to ensure Bromley has an adopted Local Plan that supports the borough’s interests as soon as possible.”
Councillor Bear added, “Our priorities for this remain protecting our precious green spaces and the character of our borough by seeking to make the best possible use of our brownfield land to meet our housing and development needs. We encourage residents to engage with this new process going forward, as we look to ensure our Local Plan works as effectively as possible for residents and our borough.”
A Local Plan serves as the borough's central planning document, outlining a blueprint for managing growth and development in line with national and London-wide policies. It designates locations for new homes, jobs, shops, and community facilities, guiding future planning applications and protecting Bromley's unique characteristics, including its green spaces.
The council prioritises meeting housing and development needs through the regeneration of previously developed, or brownfield, land. The current 'call for sites' is an initial phase where landowners and developers can propose potential development sites. All submissions will be assessed for suitability, availability, environmental impact, and infrastructure requirements.
Residents, businesses, landowners, and community groups will have further opportunities to participate as the Local Plan progresses. Further information, including the Notice to Commence and the Local Plan Timetable, is available on the council's website.
