Welcome to our community engagement on the emerging masterplan for North East Thatcham
The West Berkshire Local Plan Review (2023–2041) was adopted in June 2025 following extensive public consultation and independent examination. The Local Plan sets the planning framework for the district until 2041 and identifies land to the north east of Thatcham as a strategic location for a new sustainable urban extension.
Policy SP14 sets out the requirements that any development proposals must meet, including the provision of new homes, schools, community facilities, green infrastructure and improved transport connections.
West Berkshire is a growing district with a significant need for new homes. The Local Plan Review was prepared to address this need in a planned and sustainable way, identifying appropriate locations for growth supported by the infrastructure communities need.
Thatcham, as the district’s second largest town, benefits from strong rail connections to Reading and Newbury and has long been identified as a sustainable location for growth. Land to the north east of the town has been considered through planning policy for a number of years.
Thank you - the feedback period has now closed
The north east Thatcham Masterplan community engagement period closed on 14 May 2026.
We would like to thank everyone who took the time to get involved – whether you attended one of our community drop-in events in Upper Bucklebury, Thatcham or Cold Ash, joined us for the virtual town hall, or submitted feedback through this website.
The Emerging Masterplan
The emerging proposals for North East Thatcham will set out the approach to deliver policy SP14, including provision of up to 2,500 new homes, together with new schools, local centres, green infrastructure and transport improvements. The development is being planned as three distinct but connected neighbourhoods, each with its own character and identity, and integrated with the existing town.