Public vote in favour of adopting neighbourhood plans

Public vote in favour of adopting neighbourhood plans

August 2, 2021

Five more Neighbourhood Development Plans (NDPs) have been adopted following referenda in May.

The NDPs were “made” at June’s Planning Committee, bringing the total number in the National Park to 37.

The referenda took place for Boxgrove, Bramber, Henfield, Upper Beeding, and Stedham with Iping after being postponed last year because of Covid restrictions.

Each NDP, developed by the local parish council in consultation with the public, received 85 per cent, or more, support in favour of being adopted.

Lucy Howard, Planning Policy Manager, said: “Neighbourhood planning gives local communities the power to shape development in their area and sits at the heart of our approach to planning for thriving and prosperous communities.

“As of July 2021 there are 36 made Neighbourhood Development Plans, which are testament to the dedication of local volunteers and the Authority’s officers in ensuring that communities are an integral part of the planning process in the National Park.

“These newly-adopted NDPs now become part of the statutory development plan for the National Park, and the policies and proposals contained within them will be used in the determination of planning applications, including appeals within the relevant parishes.”