Dartmoor Local Plan 2026: Scoping Consultation Launched

Dartmoor National Park Authority has opened a six‑week Scoping Consultation for the emerging Dartmoor Local Plan 2026, marking the first stage in shaping the future planning framework for the National Park. The consultation, published on 13 July 2026 under Regulation 20 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026, invites communities, organisations, businesses and interested parties to share early views on what the new Local Plan should address.

The Authority is seeking feedback on three core areas: the vision for the new Local Plan, the scope and content of the plan—including how well the current Local Plan is performing—and how DNPA should engage with people throughout the plan‑making process. To support this, DNPA has produced a SWOT analysis drawing on evidence from the State of the Park Report, Local Plan monitoring, and workshops held during development of the Partnership Plan.

The consultation is open until Sunday 23 August 2026. DNPA’s preferred method of response is via the online consultation survey, though the consultation document is also available as a PDF on the Authority’s website or for viewing at Parke, Bovey Tracey during office hours. Responses may be submitted online, by email to forwardplanning@dartmoor.gov.uk, or by post.

Respondents may also request to be notified of future stages of the Local Plan process, including consultation on proposed content, Planning Inspectorate advice at Gateway 2, submission for examination, publication of examination details, pauses for further work, additional documents, the examiner’s recommendations, and eventual adoption of the plan.

The Scoping Consultation represents the first opportunity for local voices to influence the direction of the new Local Plan, which will guide development, conservation, and community priorities across Dartmoor for years to come.