As outlined in the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2026, when preparing a new Local Plan engagement must be conducted with two key groups. These are known as 'specific consultation bodies' and 'general consultation bodies'. Specific consultation bodies are itemised in the planning regulations and include organisations such as the Environment Agency, Natural England and Education Authority. This list also includes Parish Councils and neighbouring planning authorities.

General consultation bodies are those specific to Dartmoor National Park and include voluntary organisations, groups representing people with protected characteristics, and business representative organisations. We will adopt a network-based approach to consultation, working through existing partnerships and representative organisations to maximise awareness and participation. The Partnership Plan Board brings together a diverse range of organisations with interests across Dartmoor and will provide an important channel for sharing information and promoting participation. In addition, established local and thematic networks have been identified to extend our reach, helping to ensure that a wide range of communities, stakeholders and interests are represented throughout the consultation process.

A list of consultees is provided within the Extra Information section. This list will be kept under review and up to date throughout the plan-making period.

Members of the public are invited to receive notifications by subscribing to our ‘keep in touch’ page. All those who respond to a consultation will also be asked if they wish to receive further notifications.

Ongoing engagement

Authority Members have a fundamental role in the preparation of the Local Plan. Members will be kept informed of Local Plan progress through the Planning and Sustainable Development Working Panel which will meet four times a year. This Panel provides Members with an opportunity to comment and advise on future work. These meetings have been scheduled to align with key milestones in the plan-making process, ensuring that Member’s input can be provided at the most appropriate stages.

In addition, Authority Members play an important role in strengthening communication between the Authority, other organisations and local communities. They will help share information through their networks, ensuring that updates, opportunities to get involved, and key messages reach a wider audience across Dartmoor.

We will continue to work with neighbouring authorities and the combined Devon and Torbay Authority on cross-boundary working to ensure that the local plan is positively prepared.

Parish Councils are statutory consultees, but we will engage with them throughout the plan-making process, not just at formal consultation stages. They have a valuable role in helping us stay connected with local communities by keeping residents informed, encouraging participation in engagement activities, and providing coordinated feedback on behalf of their communities.