A neighbourhood plan is essential for a community because it empowers residents to have a direct say in the development and growth of their local area. This plan allows the community to articulate a shared vision for their neighbourhood, ensuring that future developments align with their collective aspirations. By having a neighbourhood plan, residents can influence where new homes, shops, and offices should be built, preserving the character and identity of their area while accommodating necessary growth. It can't stop development allocated in the Local Plan, but it can help shape it.
Moreover, a neighbourhood plan helps tailor development to meet local needs and priorities. Communities can set specific planning policies that address issues unique to their area, such as protecting green spaces, enhancing local amenities, or improving transportation links. This level of customisation ensures that development is not only appropriate but also beneficial, enhancing the quality of life for current and future residents. It also allows for proactive planning, addressing potential challenges before they become significant problems.
Another critical reason for having a neighbourhood plan is the legal weight it carries. Once approved, the plan becomes part of the statutory development plan for the area, meaning it must be considered in all planning decisions. This gives the community a stronger voice and greater influence over local development, ensuring that their needs and preferences are not overlooked by developers or planning authorities. It provides a structured framework within which sustainable and community-focused development can occur.
Finally, the process of creating a neighbourhood plan can foster community cohesion and engagement. Developing the plan requires collaboration and input from a wide range of community members, encouraging participation and dialogue. This process can strengthen community bonds, as residents work together towards a common goal. It also raises awareness about local issues and empowers individuals to take an active role in shaping their environment, leading to a more engaged and resilient community.
A Neighbourhood Plan:
- Empowerment: It gives local residents the power to influence the development and growth of their area. This includes setting policies on where new homes, shops, and offices should be built, and what they should look like
- Local Needs: Since the plan is created by the community, it focuses on local priorities and issues. This can include protecting green spaces, enhancing local biodiversity, and ensuring new developments meet the needs of residents
- Legal Status: Once approved by a community referendum, a neighbourhood plan becomes part of the statutory development plan. This means local planning authorities must consider it when making decisions on planning applications
- Infrastructure Funding: Areas with an adopted neighbourhood plan receive a higher portion of the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which can be used to fund local infrastructure projects
- Community Vision: It helps capture what is distinctive about the neighbourhood and addresses big issues like the location and scale of new development, providing a clear vision for the future
Creating a neighbourhood plan can be resource-intensive, but the benefits of having a say in the future development of your community often outweigh the challenges.