News Maidstone Local Plan Review Adopted by Members

Maidstone Borough Councillors have voted in favour of the adoption of the Maidstone Borough Local Plan Review (LPR) in a Full Council meeting last night, Wednesday 20 March 2024.

In 2018 Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) began the process of updating the adopted Local Plan 2011-2031. Since then, the ‘Maidstone Borough Local Plan Review’ has been subject to various public consultations as proposals for managing future development, including accommodating required housing growth across the borough, have been prepared.

The LPR process culminated in an Independent Examination by a Planning Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State. The Council received the Inspector’s Final Report earlier this month following conclusion of the Independent Examination.

The Inspector gave detailed consideration to the proposals during a rigorous examination process, and he considers the Local Plan Review to be ‘sound’ subject to incorporation of his required Main Modifications.

MBC Cabinet Member for Planning, Infrastructure and Economic Development, Cllr Paul Cooper, said:

By adopting the Local Plan Review, the Council will have the best possible control of future development and associated infrastructure provision in the borough of Maidstone, whilst also protecting key designated assets and landscapes, supporting the natural environment and helping to tackle climate change.

Cllr Cooper continued:

The LPR provides a framework for major investment not just in housebuilding and the provision of over 3,000 affordable new homes, but also in new jobs and training opportunities, retail and commercial space, highway improvements and a range of other community infrastructure.

MBC now looks ahead to the implementation of the Council’s Local Plan Review at the earliest opportunity.

More information about the Maidstone Local Plan Review is available on the Council website: www.maidstone.gov.uk

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