Views are being sought on updated planning guidance that will help shape the quality and delivery of new development across South Worcestershire.
The Affordable Housing, Developer Contributions and Air Quality Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDS) are all out for a five-week public consultation.
SPDs provide detailed guidance to explain how existing planning policies should be applied, so developers know what is expected of them when they submit planning applications.
The three SPDs being consulted on have all been updated to take into account the policies in the recently adopted South Worcestershire Development Plan Review.
The Affordable Housing SPD sets out Malvern Hills District, Worcester City and Wychavon District councils’ approach to securing affordable housing either within a specific scheme or a contribution so it can be delivered elsewhere. The Air Quality SPD requires developers to show how they are using design and layout to reduce the impact of poor air quality on human health, while the Developer Contributions SPD sets out how funding or infrastructure will be secured from developers, either on-site or off-site, to make the developments acceptable in planning terms
Once adopted, all SPDs will be used when assessing planning applications.
The consultations run from 30 March to 11.59pm on 30 April. To take part, visit the consultation page of the SWDPR website and click on the ‘Consultations for Supplementary Planning Documents 2026’ link on the left hand menu.
Cllr David Harrison, Chair of the SWDPR Joint Advisory Panel, said: “Supplementary Planning Documents have a real impact on how development takes place across South Worcestershire. By updating them in line with the newly adopted SWDPR, we are setting out clear expectations for developers and helping to deliver the right infrastructure, housing and environmental standards.
“I encourage people to take part in the consultations and share their views.”
