Sevenoaks Local Plan: Liberal Democrats Call for New Approach Following Consultation

The results of the public consultation on the draft Sevenoaks Local Plan have been published, showing residents oppose every major development proposal put forward by the Council. Sevenoaks Liberal Democrats have written an open letter to Council leaders calling for a change of direction.

Key points from our letter:

• The consultation results are decisive — public support for the current plan does not exist and the Council must respond
• The status quo carries serious risk — without a change of approach, Sevenoaks faces either a failed Local Plan process or an unpopular plan imposed without consent
• A new consensus is achievable, based on four principles:
  • Sevenoaks needs a Local Plan — entering the new unitary era without one would disadvantage our District
  • New housing is needed, particularly affordable homes and social rent properties
  • Infrastructure commitments must be detailed and delivered in parallel with development
  • The environment and design quality must be central to any new plan
• Cross-party cooperation is essential — the Council must create new mechanisms for genuine political and community dialogue

We are calling on all Council groups to meet urgently to explore a new, consensus-based approach to the Local Plan.