West Berkshire Council launches consultation on planning enforcement plan
Residents invited to share their views on draft proposals
West Berkshire Council is asking residents to share their opinions on its draft Planning Enforcement Plan during a six-week public consultation starting on 26th January 2026.
The consultation will run until 5pm on 9th March 2026, and feedback collected will inform the final plan, which will be reviewed by the Executive in May 2026.
Planning enforcement ensures development aligns with permissions and helps protect the character of local communities. West Berkshire Council handles around 60 enforcement cases monthly, but approximately half are found not to be breaches or not expedient to pursue. The draft plan seeks to introduce a clearer and fair prioritisation system, including a new Category 4 for lower-priority cases, to ensure resources address the most serious breaches effectively.
Councillor Denise Gaines, Executive Member for Planning and Housing, said:
“Planning enforcement is essential to maintaining trust in the planning system and protecting our communities. We want to make sure our approach is fair, proportionate and focused on what matters most. Your feedback will help us get this right, so please take a few minutes to share your views.”
Residents can review the draft plan and respond by completing a short survey online or requesting paper copies from the Council offices in Market Street, Newbury.
For more information and to take part: CLICK HERE