West Berkshire Local Plan Review Given the Green Light

West Berkshire’s journey to shape its future through the Local Plan Review (2022 - 2039) has reached a major milestone. After years of preparation, public input and examination, the Local Plan was officially submitted to the Secretary of State on 31st March 2023 — and now, the Inspector’s verdict is in.

Independent Examination Now Complete

The submitted plan underwent an independent examination led by Planning Inspector William Fieldhouse (BA Hons, MA, MRTPI), appointed by the Secretary of State. Their job? To determine whether the plan meets legal requirements, has been prepared in line with national policy and fulfils the Duty to Cooperate with surrounding areas.

His detailed assessment focused on whether the plan is:

• Positively prepared,

• Justified,

• Effective, and

• Consistent with national planning policy.

  
  

Inspector’s Findings: Green Light With Modifications

On 8th April 2025, West Berkshire Council received the Inspector’s Report. The good news: the Local Plan is deemed sound and legally compliant, provided a set of Main Modifications - outlined in the Report’s Appendix - are incorporated.

You can download the full documents here:

• Inspector’s Report on the West Berkshire Local Plan Review (529KB)

• Appendix: Schedule of Main Modifications (7MB)

What Happens Next?

To move forward, West Berkshire Council will hold a Full Council meeting at 7pm on Tuesday 10th June 2025. At this meeting, councillors will review the Inspector’s recommendations and decide whether to formally adopt the Local Plan as part of the Development Plan for the district.