An introduction to Neighbourhood Planning Rowena Tyler, Community Development Officer

2 The Big Society Statement “We’re giving local people more power over what happens in their neighbourhood – so communities can come together to keep pubs open, stop post offices from closing, run parks and take control over the look and feel of new developments in their area.” David Cameron October 2010

Neighbourhood Planning “ We will introduce new rights for communities to shape their local areas through neighbourhood planning. Communities will be able to use neighbourhood development plans to set policies for the development and use of land in their neighbourhoods and through the use of neighbourhood development orders can permit development – in full or in outline.” “A Plain English Guide to the Localism Bill Communities and Local Government”

It’s about development and land use Live Work Play Schools Parking Services

5 NP and the Community NP group led by Parish or Town Council Everyone can be involved – indeed this is essential Support from DCLG, LPA with documentation and funding Developers will have to take notice of the NP

6 NP and the Planning System Neighbourhood Plans Must: Be in accord with the principles of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Conform with the Local Planning Authority (LPA) Local Plan (Waverley BC – April 2016) Pass an Independent Examination and be voted on at referendum

Neighbourhood Planning 5 Stage Process 14 NP Community Referendum Independent Check Preparing your Plan Agreeing The Neighbourhood

Preparing the Plan Set up Steering Group and Task Groups Gather recent evidence – Thursley VDS 2009; possibly rural housing needs survey Invite the Community to have their say Collect all statistical and demographic info about the area Work with Developers, LPA, Stakeholders

Preparing the Plan to Pre - Submission  Identify sites and type of development  Set down infrastructure needs  Write the policies OUTCOME: Pre – Submission Plan 6 week Consultation

Examination & Referendum Examiner is Independent from Local Authority Local Authority arranges both (and covers the cost) All residents on the electoral roll get to vote Need over 50% (of the turnout) to vote in favour

Independent Examination 5 BASIC CONDITIONS Complies with national policies and guidance issued by the Secretary of State. NPPF The making of the plan contributes to the achievement of sustainable development; Conformity with the Local Planning Authority Plan Compatible with, EU obligations; Possible SEA Prescribed conditions are met in relation to the plan and prescribed matters have been complied with in connection with the proposal for the plan.- NP area designated and approved, Community Involvement, Consultation and all Statutory consultation periods adhered to.

Ensuring a Smooth Journey

5 golden rules 1.Agree Roles and Responsibilities 2.Evidence – audit trail 3.Don’t be coy – extend the hand of friendship 4.Talk to everyone – get them on board 5.Check you’re in Step (LPA, NPPF, anything new which crops up)

Important Considerations Costs – how much, where do the funds come from? Capacity – who will do the work? Continuity – how to keep it all together Calendar – how long will this take?

15 Recap - Benefits of Compiling a Neighbourhood Plan 15 Communities say where new building happens, what it looks like, and possibly, secure land for affordable local occupancy Potential gains under Community Infrastructure Levy and Community Rights A material consideration for planning applications – Legal Force

Neighbourhood Planning Questions?