8 April 2026

Notice of Intention to Commence Preparation of the Wyre Forest Local Plan

In accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026, Wyre Forest District Council hereby gives notice of its intention to commence preparation of a new Local Plan.

Planning Authority: Wyre Forest District Council

Title of the Plan: Wyre Forest Local Plan

This Local Plan will replace the current adopted Wyre Forest Local Plan and will establish the planning framework for future development within the district.

The Local Plan will not incorporate a minerals or waste plan. These matters continue to be prepared by Worcestershire County Council as the Minerals and Waste Planning Authority.

Area Covered by the Plan

The Local Plan will cover the administrative area of Wyre Forest District Council (ONS code E07000239).

This area includes the towns of Kidderminster, Stourport-on-Severn and Bewdley together with the district’s villages and rural areas.

A map showing the administrative boundary of Wyre Forest District is shown as follows:

Local Plan Timetable

The timetable sets out the anticipated programme for preparing the Local Plan and will be kept under review and updated where necessary.

Expected Commencement of the 30-Month Plan Preparation Process

The Council currently expects to commence the formal 30-month Local Plan preparation process by passing through Gateway 1 in August 2026, subject to the timetable published on the Council’s website.

Further Information

Preparing a new Local Plan provides an opportunity to establish a long-term vision for Wyre Forest District and to identify how future development needs will be met, whilst protecting and enhancing the district’s natural and historic environment and supporting sustainable communities.

The Council will undertake early engagement with residents, businesses, statutory consultees, infrastructure providers and other stakeholders throughout the preparation of the Local Plan. Details of consultation opportunities will be published on the Council’s website.

For further information about the emerging Wyre Forest Local Plan, please visit: https://www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/planning-and-buildings/planning-policy/emerging-local-plan/

Or contact the Planning Policy Team

Email: planning.policy@wyreforestdc.gov.uk

Download Notice of Intention to Commence Local Plan Preparation (pdf 222KB)