How to increase online participation in Local Plan consultations

Submitted by Cath Patterson on
Image of a consultation comment function enabling user to support or object on policy

Increasing online participation in Local Plan consultations requires a mix of outreach strategies, user-friendly digital tools, and ongoing engagement. Here we share some effective ways to boost involvement:

1. Simplify the Online Consultation Process

  • User-Friendly Platform: Ensure the consultation software is intuitive and accessible for all demographics. Features like interactive maps, easy navigation, and clear instructions help reduce barriers to participation. 
  • Mobile Optimisation: Many users will engage via smartphones, so ensure the platform is mobile-friendly.
  • Accessibility: Make sure the platform supports accessibility features for people with disabilities, such as screen readers and translation options for non-native speakers.

If you’re already using both OpusConsult and OpusMap – you’ve got the above covered!

2. Promote Awareness Through Digital Marketing

  • Social Media Campaigns: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to promote the consultation. Share engaging content, such as visuals, interactive polls, and short videos explaining the Local Plan and why it matters.
  • Email Newsletters: Send targeted emails to local residents, businesses, and stakeholders with information on the consultation, including deadlines and how to participate.
  • Community Influencers: Engage with local influencers, community leaders, and organisations to promote the consultation within their networks.
  • Paid Ads: Use targeted online ads (e.g., Facebook, Google) to reach specific demographics and ensure wide visibility.

3. Leverage Local Online Communities

  • Local Forums and Facebook Groups: Post in local community groups and forums where residents already discuss local issues. These platforms can be great for reaching engaged citizens.
  • Partner with Community Organisations: Collaborate with local groups (e.g., schools, environmental groups, neighbourhood associations) to spread the word and encourage their members to participate.

4. Host Virtual Events

  • Webinars & Live Q&A Sessions: Organise virtual meetings to explain the Local Plan, answer questions, and walk people through the online consultation participation process. Promote these events via email and social media.
  • Recorded Tutorials: Create short video guides or walkthroughs explaining how to use the consultation platform and the benefits to users and the council of doing so. Share these videos on social media and your website.

5. Use Visual and Interactive Content

  • Infographics and Short Videos: Simplify complex data with easy-to-understand graphics or explainer videos. This makes the consultation topics more accessible to a broader audience.
  • Interactive Maps: Let users explore interactive maps showing proposed developments or areas of change, allowing them to leave comments directly on specific locations.

6. Provide Regular Updates and Feedback

  • Show Impact of Feedback: Share success stories or examples where previous feedback has led to real changes in the Local Plan, demonstrating that public input makes a difference.
  • Frequent Updates: Regularly update the public on how the consultation is progressing and the next steps in the decision-making process. This keeps people engaged and motivates them to contribute more.

7. Segment and Target Specific Groups

  • Tailored Communication: Use targeted messaging for different demographic groups (e.g., young adults, parents, seniors) to explain why the Local Plan affects them and how they can participate.
  • Youth Engagement: Work with schools or universities to engage younger residents. Provide incentives for them to participate or contribute their views via educational or student-focused platforms.

8. Use Surveys and Polls

  • Quick Surveys: Offer quick, one-click polls or surveys related to the consultation topics. These can serve as an entry point for more in-depth participation.

9. Collaborate with Local Media

  • Local News Websites and Blogs: Partner with local media outlets to promote the consultation and run stories that highlight the importance of public participation in the Local Plan.
  • Community Radio and Podcasts: Use local radio shows and podcasts to explain the process and encourage participation.

Top Tip to Achieve 60%+ Online Participation

To reduce drop-off rates and encourage online public participation, when promoting consultations on social media and other external sources, avoid the need for complicated navigation through the council website. Instead, share the direct link to the online consultation document. 

How these Strategies can Impact Online Consultation Participation

By employing a mix of these strategies, you'll increase awareness, make the process more accessible, and encourage a wider range of people to participate in the Local Plan consultation.

 

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