Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report

Fenland District Council is preparing a new district wide Local Plan, which will set out the vision and framework for how the district will change, grow and adapt up to 2050.

Once adopted, the Local Plan will be the starting point for determining local planning applications.

Between 2019 and 2022, Fenland District Council undertook various consultations to help shape the new Local Plan. However, progress has been slower than originally anticipated and considering the time that has passed, an updated Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report has been produced to update the baseline data.

What is a Sustainability Appraisal?

A Sustainability Appraisal (SA) must be carried out during the preparation of a Local Plan. The SA assesses the potential environmental, economic and social impacts of the proposals against reasonable alternatives, to help ensure the Local Plan contributes towards 'sustainable development'.

What is a Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report?

Production of a Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report is the first step in the SA process. The Scoping Report sets out the technical scope and (environmental, economic and social) objectives against which the impacts of the emerging Local Plan will be assessed.  

Who should respond to this consultation?

Historic England, Natural England and the Environment Agency have been directly consulted.

Whilst this is primarily a technical consultation, representations are also welcome from other relevant bodies and individuals. 

How can I submit comments?

After reading the Fenland Local Plan - Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report (PDF, 4 MB), you can email any comments to PlanningPolicy@fenland.gov.uk.

Comments must be received no later than 11.59pm on 25 February 2025.