Westmorland and Furness opens consultation on Local Plan for future development

Residents and businesses encouraged to help shape the area's development to 2045

Author: Joseph GartlyPublished 3rd Jul 2026

Westmorland and Furness Council has initiated a public consultation for its first Local Plan, aiming to guide the region’s development until 2045.

The Local Plan seeks to address housing, employment, and infrastructure while considering environmental impacts and community prosperity.

The Scoping Consultation, launched on 1st July, invites locals to contribute their insights and opinions on key theme areas identified in early engagement: housing, health and communities, place, travel and infrastructure, economy, and climate and nature.

Residents and businesses can participate in the consultation survey, open until 11th August, and access information and documentation at local town halls and libraries.

Councillor Vicky Hughes emphasised the importance of community involvement, especially in light of new government mandates aiming for the construction of 26,000 new homes by 2045.

Council officers plan to promote the consultation at community events and engage with under-represented groups in focus sessions.

To remain updated on the Local Plan's progress and future engagement opportunities, individuals can join the council's mailing list for notifications.