In December 2024, the Government introduced a mandatory housing number for East Hampshire of 1,142 homes a year (a 98% increase).  Since as far back as 2021, the Council has persistently raised concerns about the housing requirement for the emerging East Hampshire local plan, including seeking legal advice, writing to and meeting with the Government and responding strongly to relevant consultations (details of which are below).   

We have taken legal advice, which has confirmed our view that there are exceptional circumstances which warrant reducing our housing number to 828. However, we know there are unmet needs from elsewhere (including the SDNP) that we must consider as we prepare our new Local Plan.  

While we continue to raise our concerns, there is no suggestion that the Government will change its overall position, as it remains committed to its ‘growth agenda’ and ‘overhauling the planning system to reach 1.5 million new homes’.  

The housing number is mandatory and combined with the changes that have been made to national planning policy, will have significant implications for East Hampshire district. The SDNP remains a highly protected area and is not required to meet housing needs.  

There is now a lot of pressure to deliver new homes in East Hampshire (outside of the SDNP).  In the next 12-18 months, we expect to receive many planning applications for new homes and will have to determine them in accordance with the new planning policy and high housing number.  We will also have to progress our Local Plan along the same lines.  If we don’t, we risk intervention by the Government whereby decisions will be entirely taken away from us.  

We are now working hard on an evidence base, to make sure that where new housing is proposed, there is key evidence available, particularly about infrastructure, to seek money towards local improvements. We will also strive for the best design and climate mitigation measures.  In addition, we have responded to the SDNPA Local Plan Review consultation stating that we will object at the next stage of their plan if they do not address the concerns we have raised.  

In addition, through the duty to co-operate, the council is required to discuss strategic matters, including housing needs with neighbouring authorities. Statements of Common Ground between the council and other councils are available to support the emerging local plan. 

We now must work with the new planning policy and mandatory housing number. Through our new local plan, we remain committed to a district that is prosperous, environmentally sustainable and a home to thriving communities.   

We understand that residents may have further questions. We have prepared answers to frequently asked questions, that provide more information. There is also a glossary in the draft Local Plan 2024. Any further questions should be directed to localplan@easthants.gov.uk.