Planning consultations and new hub
The hub which can be found at https://shapingspelthorne.commonplace.is/ will make it easier for residents to take part in consultations related to strategic planning work, all in one place.
Residents can have their say now, with two consultations on draft planning guidance currently open:
Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)
The Council is consulting on the draft Affordable Housing SPD, which provides guidance to support the delivery of affordable housing under the new Spelthorne Local Plan. It explains:
- when affordable homes are required
- what types and sizes are expected
- how they should be designed and integrated into developments
- when financial contributions may be accepted instead of on‑site provision
To find out more, residents can also attend consultation events planned in May.
Climate Change Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)
The Council is also consulting on an update of the adopted Climate Change SPD 2023. This SPD sets out how new development in the borough can help to:
- reduce the effects of climate change, and
- adapt successfully and resiliently to a changing climate.
The revised SPD aligns with the Spelthorne’s Climate Change Strategy 2022- 2030 and supports the Council’s ambition to achieve Net Zero by 2030.
How to get involved
Both consultations run from noon on Friday 8 May 2026 until noon on Friday 5 June 2026.
The most straightforward way to submit comments is via an online survey on the new engagement hub.
Anyone interested in one or both consultations is welcome to submit responses, whether they are residents, visitors to the Borough, local businesses, developers or any other interested group.
Other ways of submitting consultation responses are also set out in the links above, as well as further details about the consultations and FAQs.
Following the close of the consultations, all responses will be carefully considered and the SPDs may be updated where necessary before being presented to a Council meeting for adoption. Adoption of these SPDs is anticipated by 30 June 2026, in line with a government‑imposed deadline.
To learn more about strategic planning projects and hear about future consultations and engagement opportunities, visit the new Shaping Spelthorne: Strategic Planning Engagement Hub.
Cllr John Turner, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, said: “These consultations are an important opportunity for residents, businesses and developers to help shape the future of Spelthorne. The new engagement hub makes it easier than ever for people to get involved and have their say on key issues including affordable housing and climate change. We encourage everyone with an interest in the future of our borough to take part and share their views.”