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How to Submit an Objection to The Sheffield Green Belt Plan

Updated: Jul 10

Sheffield City Council has released details of The Sheffield Plan, which sets out a strategy for growth in the city of Sheffield until 2039. This includes plans for over 38,000 new homes. The original plan submitted for circa 34,000 homes was rejected due to a perceived shortfall, hence, a new, updated plan for 38,000+ homes in Sheffield. Several green belt areas in Sheffield have been identified for 3,948 homes.


The inspectors concluded that 237.2 hectares of land should be set aside for employment sites, 52.8 hectares more than the original proposal.


The updated plan includes plans to build on green belt areas of Sheffield, the majority of which are in the S35 and S13 postcodes. Smaller green belt developments are also planned in S12 (304 homes), S10 (258 homes), and S17 (82 homes).


In order to build on green belt, all other options must first be considered. This includes:

  • Making the best use of brownfield (previously used) land

  • Building at higher densities, especially in city centres or near public transport

  • Asking nearby councils if they could take on some of the housing or employment need

Only if these options have been properly explored can the Council consider removing land from the Green Belt.


How to Object to Plans to Build on Sheffield's Green Belt


If you would like to submit a response to the Sheffield Plan with regards to plans to develop on green belt land, you should do this before Friday 11 July 2025. You can submit an objection in the following ways:



What Should You Put in Your Response?


Responses will be directed to planning inspectors who will take into account whether the plans need to be adapted. The inspectors need to see evidence to justify the objections you make. Areas to centre your objections around should be in relation to environmental impact, traffic, infrastructure, and economic viability because these are areas that may influence decisions. It is highly recommended that you look at guidance from your local green belt campaign before submitting your response.


What Happens After the Public Consultation?


After the public consultation, all comments from the public will be sent to the Planning Inspectors who are reviewing the Sheffield Plan. These comments will help shape the topics discussed in public hearings, expected in September and October.


The Council doesn’t have to reply to each comment directly, but council officers will write responses to the questions set by the Inspectors.


The Inspectors will check if the plan (including new site suggestions) is legally correct and makes sense. They will also look at any changes suggested by the Council or the public. If needed, they can recommend key changes, known as “Main Modifications,” to make the plan acceptable. These changes may or may not include the new development sites.


A Timeline For The Sheffield Plan Process


Below is the expected timeline for the process of implementation of the Sheffield Plan to build on Sheffield's green belt, after responses and objections have been received.


  • Public hearings: September–October 2025

  • Inspectors’ draft report: November 2025

  • Public consultation on key changes: February–March 2026

  • Final report from Inspectors: June 2026

  • Plan officially adopted: July 2026


More Information About Objecting To Green Belt Development Plans In Sheffield


You can read more about how Sheffield City Council consults on planning applications and policies here.


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