SSDC and Neighbourhood Plans

The Localism Act has introduced 'Neighbourhood Plans' as part of the National Planning Policy Framework. These are locally prepared documents which set out what type and scale of development is needed to help a community achieve the right mix of affordable housing, employment opportunities and services.

Many communities in South Somerset have already produced local community plans (or town or parish plans), and while these plans can act as a foundation for future development ideas, a Neighbourhood Plan is a separate document.

Neighbourhood Plans will be informed by local consultation and the South Somerset Core Strategy - the overarching development plan for South Somerset.

The Planning Advisory Service has provided some 'frequently asked questions' about Neighbourhood Planning and useful links to four organisations who have received funding from the government to provide advice to those preparing neighbourhood plans http://www.pas.gov.uk/pas/core/page.do?pageId=1802659 

SSDC is currently supporting the parish of Queen Camel to produce one of the country's first Neighbourhood Plans and the results will help inform others.

As a result of the publicity given to the Localism Act 2011, SSDC has received a number of enquiries about Neighbourhood Development Plans. At this point (January 2012), SSDC is unable to progress any requests because not all of the relevent powers come into force until April 2012, and a number of regulations are still to be approved by Parliament.

The process to produce a Neighbourhood Plan will be similar to that of producing other types of community based plans - for example Parish Plans or Village Design Statements. Follow this link to read our previous advice on how community led plans can be developed at a quality which allows them to influence local planning decisions.

There are other ways, including the use of existing evidence led Development Management system in South Somerset, and by using techniques such as 'master planning' to get the development you wish to see in your community.

Further detailed guidance is expected over the coming months, but in the meantime if you have an enquiry about Neighbourhood Plans please email communities@southsomerset.gov.uk  or contact your local Area Development team.