WILTSHIRE Council has issued a robust response after planning inspectors cast doubt over its long-awaited Local Plan, marking a critical moment in a process nearly a decade in the making.

In a letter dated February 27, inspectors presented the council with two stark options: withdraw the plan from examination or proceed to a final report that would recommend it not be adopted.

The council has now formally replied, expressing “strong disappointment” at both the conclusions reached and the limited pathways offered forward.

Developed over nine years, the Local Plan is central to shaping housing, infrastructure and development across the county.

The council insists it has taken “every reasonable step” to ensure the plan could be found sound, despite what it describes as a shifting national policy landscape and rising housing demands.

It also raised concerns about what it sees as a change in the inspectors’ position since December 2025, as well as a missed opportunity to resolve potential misunderstandings during the process.

Cabinet member for strategic planning Cllr Adrian Foster.

Cabinet member for strategic planning Cllr Adrian Foster said: “We remain firmly committed to ensuring Wiltshire has a robust, up-to-date Local Plan in place as swiftly as possible.

“It is therefore regrettable that we find ourselves in this position after so many years of diligent work, extensive community engagement, and significant resource investment.

“Cabinet and full council will formally decide on the next step for the plan. In the meantime, we are now starting preparations on a new plan.”

The outcome now rests with councillors, with cabinet set to consider the next steps on May 6, followed by a full council decision on May 19.