Mid Sussex Council District Plan

This short video explains what The District Plan is and why it is needed to help safeguard future developments. The plan-making process can be challenging and difficult to grasp, and this video breaks down the details to explain the process in creating the plan and how it will benefit the future development of the District.

It highlights key issues such as the housing shortage, affordability challenges, population growth, and the need for essential amenities.

Update on the latest stage of the District Plan

The District Plan is Mid Sussex District Council’s long-term plan for where new homes and jobs should go, what needs to be protected, and what standards new development must meet.

The Plan ensures growth is well planned, not piecemeal - and that it comes with the right infrastructure.

  • More local control: stronger decision-making limiting exposure to speculative proposals and appeals.
  • Protect what matters: clearer policies to safeguard valued landscapes, countryside and heritage.
  • Infrastructure alongside growth: a framework to secure schools, health services, transport, green space and community facilities.
  • Clarity for communities and investors: greater certainty about what can go where, and when.

Mid Sussex District Council’s draft District Plan is currently being independently examined by a government-appointed Planning Inspector. As part of that process, the Inspector has asked the council to increase the amount of housing it is planning for to help to meet the need for housing in local council areas where they are unable to meet the need.

This means the Council must find 4,000 more homes in addition to the housing already included in the Plan. To achieve this the Council has been asked to provide more sites for potential allocation in the Plan. These sites will be subject to a technical assessment. Being included on the list does not mean a site will be allocated or developed, and it does not grant planning permission.

Following testing residents will have an opportunity to comment on the final list of additional sites, and we will publish further information and FAQs to explain what happens next.

The list is for technical assessment only.

Last updated: 15 May 2026