Local Plan Scoping Consultation (Regulation 20)
Folkestone & Hythe District Council is preparing a new Local Plan, which will help shape how the district develops in the years ahead. As part of the early stages of this process, we are inviting local people, organisations and stakeholders to take part in the scoping consultation.
The scoping consultation is an opportunity to tell us what you think the key issues are for the district, what the Local Plan should cover, and how we should engage with communities as the plan is prepared.
Your comments will help inform the next stages of the Local Plan process, including the development of the plan’s vision, objectives, evidence base and future policy content. They will also help develop the council’s Communications and Engagement Strategy for future consultations.
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Scoping Report
The council is also inviting comments on the Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report, which has been published alongside the Local Plan scoping consultation. SEA assesses the significant sustainability issues and likely effects of emerging plans and policies, including reasonable alternatives.
This first stage of the SEA process sets the context and objectives, establishes the baseline, and defines the proposed scope and framework for later assessment. Consulting on the SEA Scoping Report allows stakeholders to comment early, helping identify issues of concern and improve the assessment as the Local Plan develops.
Consultation
The Scoping Consultation document and the SEA Scoping Report will be available to view on a new dedicated webpage which has been created for the local plan. Paper copies will also be made available to view at the Civic Centre and at all libraries during normal office hours.
The consultation will start on the 7th September and close on the 16th October 2026 (5pm). Please submit your comments using the consultation portal or the dedicated form, which can be posted to the Civic Centre. If you need the consultation material in another format, language, or accessible version, or if you need support to take part, please contact us using the details provided on the council’s website.
We would welcome your views and encourage you to share this invitation with anyone who may have an interest in the future planning of the district.