The scoping stage marks the first formal step in preparing the new County Durham Local Plan and is the first opportunity for you to have your say on topics and issues which will help shape its foundations. It is your chance to help shape future decisions about housing, jobs, transport, the environment, town centres, and community facilities.
Get involved early on
Durham County Council wants our residents, businesses, and all interested parties to get involved to help shape the foundations of the new Local Plan at this early stage to make sure it reflects community aspirations, responds to local needs, and remains aligned with national and regional policy requirements. The feedback received will guide the development of detailed policies and proposals as the Local Plan progresses when there will be further opportunities to provide feedback.
- Scoping Consultation – Take part
22nd June 2026 – 17th August 2026
- County Durham Plan – Scoping review of feedback
18th August 2026 – 30th September 2026 23:59
Visit the Lets Talk County Durham page for more information on this public consultation.
Lets Talk county Durham Link: www.letstalkcountydurham.co.uk/en-GB/projects/county-durham-plan-scoping-docment-consultation
16/07/2026 – Town Council’s comments on this Consultation:
Bishop Auckland Town Council welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the preparation of a new County Durham Local Plan and recognises the importance of ensuring that future development supports vibrant, sustainable and resilient communities.
The Council believes the new Local Plan should:
- Support the regeneration and economic growth ambitions of Bishop Auckland, recognising its role as a key settlement and visitor destination within County Durham.
- Prioritise investment in infrastructure, including transport, healthcare, education, digital connectivity and community facilities alongside new development.
- Ensure housing growth is balanced and delivers a mix of affordable, accessible and energy-efficient homes that meet local need.
- Protect and enhance the natural environment, green spaces, heritage assets and the distinctive character of towns and villages.
- Encourage town centre vitality through policies that support local businesses, cultural activity, tourism and high street regeneration.
- Promote sustainable transport options, including walking, cycling and public transport connectivity.
- Support community wellbeing by safeguarding and enhancing access to recreation, leisure and community facilities.
- Recognise the importance of partnership working with town and parish councils in identifying local priorities and opportunities for growth.
Bishop Auckland Town Council notes that the current stage of the Local Plan process includes a scoping consultation and call for sites, providing an important opportunity for local communities, landowners, developers and stakeholders to help shape the future direction of development across County Durham. The Council supports an evidence-led approach to identifying potential development sites and believes that all proposed sites should be assessed against clear sustainability criteria, including impacts on infrastructure, accessibility, heritage, the natural environment and local community needs. The Council would welcome early and meaningful engagement with town and parish councils throughout the site assessment process to ensure that local knowledge, regeneration opportunities and community priorities are fully considered before decisions are made on future site allocations. The Council also emphasises the importance of prioritising brownfield and previously developed land where appropriate and ensuring that any future growth is supported by the necessary infrastructure and services.
Bishop Auckland Town Council looks forward to engaging in future stages of the Local Plan process and supports the development of a plan that delivers sustainable growth, protects local identity and helps create prosperous communities across County Durham.