Local Plan CONSULTATIONS (2026-2041)
This page provides information on all consultation and engagement activities undertaken as part of the preparation of the Isles of Scilly Local Plan 2026-2041.
The Council is preparing a new Local Plan under the Government's reformed plan-making system. The Local Plan will help guide decisions on housing, employment, infrastructure, climate resilience, transport, the historic environment, biodiversity and the future of our communities over the period to 2041. Gateway 1 was completed in September 2026, commencing the formal 30-month plan-making period.
This page will be updated throughout the preparation of the Local Plan and will provide access to consultation documents, supporting evidence, engagement reports and summaries of comments received.
Consultation Stages
Early Engagement and Scoping (March-April 2026)
Status: Completed
Prior to the commencement of the formal plan-making period, the Council undertook an early engagement and scoping exercise between March and April 2026 to introduce the Local Plan review and gather initial views on the key issues, opportunities and challenges facing the Isles of Scilly.
Engagement included residents, businesses, community organisations, infrastructure providers, statutory consultees, public bodies and other interested stakeholders. The exercise sought views on housing needs, economic development, climate change adaptation, transport, infrastructure, biodiversity, landscape character, heritage, community facilities and island sustainability.
Documents
- Summary of Early Stage Consultation (March-April 2026)
- Local Plan Notice of Commencement
- Project Initiation Document
Outcome
The matters raised through the early engagement process have informed the preparation of the Gateway 1 Self-Assessment, evidence base studies and the emerging vision and strategic priorities for the Local Plan.
Stage 1: Scoping, Vision and Strategic Options (Regulation 20)
Consultation Period: October-November 2026
Status: Open
The purpose of this consultation is to seek views on the future of the Isles of Scilly and the broad strategic choices that will shape the new Local Plan.
This consultation does not include draft planning policies. Instead, it seeks views on:
- Key issues affecting the islands over the next 15 years;
- Housing, community and demographic challenges;
- The local economy, tourism, farming and fishing;
- Climate change, coastal change and infrastructure resilience;
- Environmental protection and enhancement;
- Transport and connectivity;
- The vision and priorities for the future of the islands.
The consultation is informed by the Council's emerging evidence base, including the Housing and Economic Needs Assessment, Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan, Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, Renewable Energy Capacity Study and Landscape, Seascape and Recreational Pressure Assessment.
How to Participate
- Complete the online survey
- Submit comments by email
- Write to the Planning Team
Consultation Documents
- Planning for the Future of the Isles of Scilly to 2041
- Consultation Questionnaire
- Evidence Base Documents
What Happens Next?
Following the close of the consultation, the Council will:
- Review all comments received.
- Publish a Summary of Scoping Consultation Report in accordance with the plan-making regulations.
- Use the feedback to refine the vision, objectives and spatial strategy.
- Prepare the Draft Local Plan for Gateway 2 review.
Future Consultation Stages
The following opportunities for consultation are anticipated:
| Stage | Indicative Timing |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 Scoping, Vision and Strategic Options | Autumn 2026 |
| Stage 2 Draft Plan Preparation | 2027 |
| Stage 3 Publication and Submission | 2027-2028 |
| Examination Consultation | 2028 |
| Adoption | 2029 |
For the latest programme, please refer to the Local Plan Timetable