New Local Plan agreed at Full Council 

The Local Plan sets out the Borough’s long-term vision, including site allocations to support new homes.  

Submitted for examination in November 2022, the Plan underwent extensive public consultations and scrutiny, including hearings from May 2023 to February 2025. Following receipt of the Inspector’s Report on 4 March 2026, which found the Plan sound and legally compliant subject to a number of recommended “main modifications, councillors have now approved its adoption. 

A Council spokesperson said: “The adoption of the Plan is an important milestone that will guide development and support local communities in the years ahead. I thank everyone who contributed to its development and examination.

“Developing the Local Plan has been a long and complex process, and I would like to thank Councillors and officers for their hard work. I am pleased we now have the opportunity to adopt a clear framework for sustainable development that gives the Council greater control over future development and provides certainty for our community.”  

At the same meeting, the Council also adopted two Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs): the Spelthorne Design Code and the Managing the Development of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO). 

The Design Code, consulted on in summer 2025, provides clear, detailed guidance to secure high-quality design in future development. The HMO SPD, consulted on earlier this year, introduces principles to manage HMO developments and prevent “sandwiching” of homes between HMOs, supporting balanced communities and good quality HMOs.  

A Council spokesperson said: “I want to thank residents who have engaged with consultations on the Spelthorne Design Code and Managing the Development of HMOs SPD. Through our Local Plan and further planning guidance, we will require new developments to deliver high-quality, sustainable design.”  

More information on the Spelthorne Local Plan is available at https://spelthornelocalplan.info/ and the Spelthorne Design Code documents are available at: Have Your Say Today - Spelthorne Design Code - Commonplace  
 
The Council’s Love Where You Live campaign is encouraging residents to report problems in their area, including problems with licensed and unlicensed HMOs. To report a problem, visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/report. To find out more about the campaign, visit https://www.spelthorne.gov.uk/news/2026/love-where-you-live-campaign