Response to Dorset Council Local Plan Scoping Consultation 2026

Dorset Council is preparing a draft Local Plan under the new 30-month system. The scoping consultation is the first formal stage.

This does not mean Dorset Council are abandoning previous work on the Local Plan. While they will need to follow the new legal process, timetable and consultation requirements, they will also use and build on evidence already collected and take account of comments received during earlier stages.

The Scoping Consultation is the first formal stage and it was held between 21st September and 26th October 2026. It asked residents and organisations what the new Local Plan should cover and about the proposed vision and priorities.