We are inviting residents, businesses and stakeholders to have their say on the next stage of the emerging Local Plan. The Regulation 19 consultation is now open and asks whether the plan is ready to move forward to independent examination.

The Local Plan is an important document that will guide development across Torbay up to 2040. Once adopted, it will become the legal starting point for determining planning applications and will help shape how the Bay grows while supporting sustainable communities, economic prosperity and environmental protection.

The consultation follows the Regulation 18 stage, which took place between November 2025 and January 2026. During that consultation, residents, businesses and stakeholders were asked for their views on the draft Local Plan. Feedback received during that stage, alongside updated evidence and technical assessments completed during 2026, has helped shape the Preferred Option Local Plan now being published for consultation.

This Regulation 19 consultation is different from the previous stage. At this point, the council is seeking views on whether the plan:

• Is the right plan for Torbay
• Is based on the right evidence
• Is in line with national planning policy and legislation
• Is ready to be examined by a Planning Inspector appointed by the Government

The council will review comments received on these matters before preparing the final draft of the Torbay Local Plan. This will be reported to full Council in December 2026 to seek approval to submit it to the Secretary of State in December 2026. Following submission, the plan will be independently examined before its anticipated adoption in 2027/28.

Councillor Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said:

"The Local Plan will help shape the future of Torbay for generations to come. It sets out how we can deliver the homes, jobs and infrastructure we need while protecting the environment and special character that make the Bay such a great place to live, work and visit.

"We've listened carefully to the feedback received during the earlier consultation and used that information, alongside updated evidence, to help develop the Publication Version of the Local Plan.

"Although this stage focuses on whether the plan is sound, supported by evidence and ready for examination, it is still important that people take the opportunity to have their say. Your views matter and will help ensure the Local Plan is robust before it is submitted for independent examination.

Following a letter from the housing minister in June 2026, the Council has now received permission from the government to proceed to the next round of Local Plan consultation. 

Once the consultation is complete, the council will review all representations before seeking approval to submit the Local Plan to the Secretary of State in December 2026. The plan will then be independently examined by a Planning Inspector before its anticipated adoption in 2027/28.

The consultation runs for six weeks from Thursday 13 August 4pm to Thursday 24 September 11.59pm.

To view the Local Plan and submit your comments, visit: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/council/policies/planning-policies/local-plan/local-plan/