Final call for feedback on Revised Draft Local Plan
Forest of Dean District Council is encouraging residents, businesses and organisations to share their views on the Revised Draft Local Plan, ahead of the consultation closing on Wednesday, 18 March 2026.
Leader of Forest of Dean District Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy and the Built Environment, Cllr Adrian Birch said:
“It has been fantastic to see so many people attending the Local Plan in‑person community events and to receive such a strong volume of comments so far.
“This public consultation is a significant opportunity for residents to help shape the district’s future over the next 20 years, and I would like to thank everyone who has taken part so far for the massive contribution that you have all made.
“It is more important than ever that we take the time to engage. Every response helps us build a clearer picture of what our communities need, value and aspire to.
“I would urge anyone who has not yet shared their views to do so and to play an active role in shaping the Forest of Dean Local Plan.”
The revised strategy for the Forest of Dean Local Plan, endorsed by councillors at a Full Council meeting last November, focuses on directing additional development to the district’s most sustainable settlements, those with strong access to services, employment and sustainable transport options, including active travel routes.
The plan as it stands also proposes the creation of two new settlements designed to support well‑connected, sustainable communities with the necessary infrastructure and travel networks.
At the Full Council meeting held on 22 January 2026, the latest version of the Draft Local Plan was approved for further public consultation. This updated draft provides further detail on potential development sites and offers residents an opportunity to comment.
As part of the consultation, the Council is also inviting landowners to come forward with sites they believe could have potential for future development, whether for housing or business use, as part of the Strategic Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (SHELAA). Details for this can be found on the Forest of Dean District Council website: https://www.fdean.gov.uk/shelaa
To take part in the Draft Local Plan consultation online, residents can visit the following website: https://www.fdean.gov.uk/reviseddraftlocalplan
Comments can also be emailed to [email protected] or in writing to the Forest of Dean District Council at the address below. If writing, or emailing, please use the heading ‘Local Plan Consultation Response’.
Forest of Dean District Council FAO Local Plans Team
High Street,
Coleford,
GL16 8HG
The consultation closes 18 March 2026.