The Local Development Scheme (LDS) sets out the planning policy that is to be prepared by us and the timetable for its preparation. The updated LDS which came into effect on 12th September 2024, will replace the previous version that was published on 6 July 2023.

The principal document we are progressing is the Exeter Plan, the new Local Plan for the city. We have also adopted three Supplementary Planning Documents since the previous LDS was published in 2023:

• The Liveable Water Lane SPD (including a development framework and design code): Adopted in July 2024
• The Householders Guide: Design of Extensions and Alterations SPD: Adopted in April 2024
• The Houses in Multiple Occupation SPD: Adopted in December 2023.

We are also preparing a St Luke’s University Campus Supplementary Planning Document alongside the University of Exeter.

Download our Local Development Scheme, Future planning policy work document

 

The new Local Plan: Exeter Plan

We are currently preparing a new Local Plan for the city. This will be known as the Exeter Plan. The Exeter Plan will replace the adopted Core Strategy and adopted Local Plan First Review.

The timetable for preparing the Exeter Plan is set out below:

• Issues consultation (Regulation 18): September 2021 Complete
• Outline Draft Plan consultation (Regulation 18): September 2022 Complete
• Draft Plan consultation (Regulation 18): October 2023 Complete
• Publication (Regulation 19): December 2024 /January 2025
• Submission to Planning Inspectorate (Regulation 22: June 2025

Indicative timetable (determined by Planning Inspectorate)

• Examination including hearings (Regulation 23 - 24): November/December 2025
• Adoption (Regulation 26): November 2026