SBC Local Plan consultation

Published: 14 January 2026

Swale Borough Council is developing a new Local Plan, the document that will set out the rules for future development across the borough, and they want to hear from you.

From Monday 12 January 2026 to Monday 23 February 2026, the council is running a public consultation on the first draft of the plan's development management policies. This is your chance to influence the standards that all future planning applications will be judged against.

This consultation covers important topics like protecting local heritage, ensuring high-quality building design, safeguarding our natural environment, and making sure new development is supported by the right infrastructure.

It’s important to know that this stage is not about identifying specific sites for new housing or businesses. Instead, it’s about getting the guiding principles and the vision, right from the start.

This is a key opportunity to make sure the new Local Plan reflects what is important to our community.

How to get involved

From 12 January, you can view the draft plan and submit your comments online via www.swale.gov.uk/consultations.

You can also view paper copies at local libraries and the council offices across the borough.

To submit your views, you can:

• Use the consultation portal that will be on www.swale.gov.uk/consultations
• email comments to lpcomments@swale.gov.uk. Please make sure to clearly state which policy or question your comment refers to.
• Post your response to: Planning Policy, Swale Borough Council, Swale House, East Street, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 3HT. Please make sure to clearly state which policy or question your comment refers to.

Your feedback is important, so please make sure your comments are submitted by 5pm on Monday 23 February.