SWDP Review Main Modifications Consultation

In September 2023, the South Worcestershire Development Plan Review, the Local Plan on behalf of the three South Worcestershire Councils (SWC), was submitted for Independent Examination under Regulation 22 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012. Subsequent Examination Hearing Sessions were held in March and April 2025, with an additional hearing on 4 September 2025. The Inspectors have now recommended a number of Main Modifications to the Plan in order for it to be found legally compliant and sound. 

To be found sound the Local Plan must be positively prepared, justified, effective and consistent with national policy. This is a consultation on the proposed Main Modifications. 

Main Modifications are substantial, material changes to a proposed plan that the independent Planning Inspector deems necessary to make the plan "sound" and legally compliant. 

The Consultation 

The Main Modifications consultation will run from Tuesday 6 January to 5pm on Tuesday 17 February 2026.   As with the previous consultations, at this stage we are required to ask whether the Local Plan (with Main Modifications) is legal and meets the Tests of Soundness set out in the National Planning Policy Framework.   

Tap or click the button below to view the consultation guidance, documents and submit responses to the consultation. 

Privacy Notices 

The South Worcestershire Councils (Malvern Hills District, Worcester City and Wychavon District Councils) privacy notice can be viewed at Privacy Notice - South Worcestershire Development Plan

All representations will be sent to the Planning Inspectors, the Planning Inspectorate privacy notices can be viewed at Planning Inspectorate: privacy notices - GOV.UK