Fenland District Council progresses new Local Plan, Fenland 50, under updated national system
Fenland District Council is pressing ahead with the development of its new Local Plan, Fenland 50, in line with the Government's new local plan making system.
As part of the updated national regulations which came into force on 25 March, the Council has formally reissued its Notice of Commencement. This ensures the emerging Local Plan is developed in line with the latest rules and benefits from the clearer, faster approach introduced by the new system.
The new national framework is designed to speed up plan-making, strengthen community engagement, and provide greater certainty for residents, businesses, and developers. By aligning Fenland 50 with these changes, the Council aims to deliver a forward‑looking plan that protects its unique places, supports local jobs, and plans for future opportunities up to 2050.
The purpose of the plan is to ensure Fenland continues to thrive - with development, investment and infrastructure shaped around the needs and priorities of local communities and businesses.
Work already undertaken remains an important foundation. Feedback gathered over recent months from residents, businesses, community organisations, parish councils, and landowners is still being used to shape the direction of the plan. This early insight helps ensure the emerging proposals genuinely reflect what matters most to the people who live and work in Fenland.
As part of the new system's clearer timetable, the Council expects to reach its first major milestone - Gateway 1 - in July 2026. This is when the formal 30-month period for preparing the final Local Plan begins.
Residents, landowners, and businesses can continue to play an active role at this stage. The Call for Sites remains open for suggestions on land that could support homes, jobs, services, green spaces or other uses. The updated Local Plan Timetable is also available online, offering a simple overview of what will happen next and when.
Fenland District Council's ambition is to create a Local Plan that truly works for Fenland - one that strengthens local opportunities, protects the distinct character of its towns and villages, and ensures that decisions about future growth are guided by local needs.
More information, including the Call for Sites and the updated timetable, is available on the Fenland 50 webpage: Emerging Local Plan - Fenland 50
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March 2026
