Public invited to comment on key changes to Sheffield’s Local Plan with fresh consultation on green belt plans
A fresh round of consultation is set to begin on proposed changes to Sheffield’s Local Plan, with green belt policy once again expected to draw close attention.
Sheffield residents are being urged to have their say on proposed changes to Sheffield’s long-term development blueprint, including building on greenbelt land.
After holding a series of public hearing sessions last year, government inspectors have issued a set of proposed amendments - known as Main Modifications - which must now be subject to public consultation.
What is The Local Plan?
The Local Plan is a statutory document required under the national planning framework and must be kept up to date by all local planning authorities.
It outlines where new housing will be delivered, identifies land for employment and job creation, and sets priorities for infrastructure investment to support future growth.
It also establishes policies designed to protect the surrounding environment and provides the council with greater control over where development can and cannot take place.
The plan - which will guide development in the city to 2039 - has already faced significant public opposition, with thousands previously objecting to proposals for around 3,500 homes, schools and employment uses on 14 green belt sites.
Following public hearings, HM Planning Inspectorate concluded the plan is “sound” subject to a series of Main Modifications.
Some of these changes slightly reduce overall housing figures and amend site allocations.
The modifications also strengthen commitments to sustainable transport improvements and expand proposals for active travel routes along several of the city’s rivers.
The council will now consult specifically on these Main Modifications before the plan moves to a final decision stage.
What can residents comment on?
At this stage, feedback is being sought specifically on:
- The Inspectors’ Main Modifications
- Further Additional Modifications proposed by the council
- Related updates to the Policies Map
- The updated Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) and Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)
The Inspectors will only consider representations that directly relate to these matters.
This document is 189 pages long, and can be found on Sheffield Councils website here.
Following public hearings, government inspectors have proposed Main Modifications that would alter housing targets, employment land and transport priorities in several parts of the city.
How and when to respond
The consultation runs from March 2 to April 14.
Comments will be considered by inspectors before the plan potentially returns to Full Council in summer 2026 for adoption.
Have your say:
- Online: via the Have Your Say website at HaveYourSay.Sheffield.gov.uk
- By email: [email protected]
- By post: Strategic Planning Team, Planning Service, 5th Floor, Howden House, Sheffield S1 2SH
Consultation documents are available online, with hard copies accessible at Howden House, all Sheffield libraries and First Points across the city.
All responses relating to the Main Modifications and associated documents will be forwarded to the Inspectors for consideration. Comments on the Additional Modifications will be reviewed by the council.