Give your views on the public consultation process for planning matters in Chelmsford

A consultation opens today to review Chelmsford City Council’s Statement of Community Involvement, a strategy that sets out how the community can have their voices heard in local planning matters

What is a Statement of Community Involvement?

The Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) is an important document which details how members of the public, interested organisations and statutory stakeholders can participate in planning and development matters which affect them. The document explains:

•    the different types of consultation and engagement,
•    who the council will consult,
•    how the council will involve members of the public in making planning policy and when considering planning applications.  

The SCI should be reviewed every five years to ensure it meets government requirements as well as the needs of the local community. The last review took place in 2020, so it’s time for the document to be looked at again.

Why is it important?

Engaging with the public, and listening to their opinions, is a key step in the planning process.

Planning affects most people in some way – the homes we live in, the open spaces we enjoy, and how we travel around – so it’s helpful to hear the views of as many people as possible when making planning and development decisions. As the SCI guides the council on how to do this, it is important that the public is involved in this latest review. While the planning process is highly regulated by Government policy, which often limits the council’s ability to act, this is a chance to read more about our strategy and comment.

Encouraging people to take part, Councillor Rose Moore, Cabinet Member for a Greener Chelmsford, said:

“

“Residents’ voices are vital in shaping Chelmsford’s future. And a strong Local Plan ensures we can guide development sustainably and protect what matters most. Without it, we risk losing control to national policies that don’t reflect local needs. Your input helps us plan a greener, fairer future for all. We are committed to ensuring that we involve the community, interested organisations and statutory stakeholders in planning and development matters that affect them. The SCI explains how we will do that."

Cllr Rose Moore, Cabinet Member for a Greener Chelmsford

How do I take part in the consultation?

The consultation is open for four weeks from 10am on Thursday 11 September until 4pm on Thursday 9 October 2025.

To read the draft SCI, visit the planning section of the Chelmsford City Council website.

The easiest way to comment on the draft is through Chelmsford City Council’s Planning Policy Consultation Portal. By registering, you will also be able to read and save consultation documents and receive alerts on future consultations.

Other options for submitting comments include emailing the planning team at planning.policy@chelmsford.gov.uk or writing to Spatial Planning Services, Chelmsford City Council, Civic Centre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JE. Please include your name and address on any correspondence. 

For full details of the consultation, please visit the the planning section of the council's website.