The power of neighbourhood planning
Tony BurtonFree range
Neighbourhood plannerFounder, Civic Voice
ex Design Council, National Trust, CPREAuthor neighbourhood planning guides Keeping it simple and Writing
planning policiesIndependent Examiner
The Localism Act introduces a series of new rights as part of the “power shift” from central Government to local communities:
•Right to challenge
•Right to bid
•Right to build
•Right to plan
http://mycommunity.org.uk/
Community rights
1,500+ communities
64% local authorities
67 referendums
100% yes
Average yes vote 88%
Average turnout 35% - beats local elections
Getting startedClarify why plan is needed
Neighbourhood areaPropose Neighbourhood Area
Themes, aims and vision Identify key themes
Community engagement & involvementPublicity
Neighbourhood Forum
Building evidence baseReview existingAdd new
Writing the plan
Consultation on plan
Submission
Independent examination
Referendum
Plan adopted
• Who? – Neighbourhood forum (with business)
• Where? – Community proposes boundary
• What? – Neighbourhood-led place making. Planning policies and site allocations – must fit with NPPF, London Plan and strategic elements of borough plan. Pro-growth
• Why? – Has real legal power and secures influence over resources generated by development (CIL)
Neighbourhood Plan
If it needs a planning application then it can be
influenced by a neighbourhood plan
Neighbourhood Plan
• Develop shared vision – what you like, dislike, want to change and want to attract
• Establish common vision and data
• Choose location of new homes, offices, shops, cultural facilities and other development
• Identify and protect important green space, views, historic buildings and features
• Establish urban and architectural design expectations for new development
Neighbourhood Plan
• Agree recommendations for what else you think needs to happen in area
• Prioritise projects which the community want delivered
• Influence spending via section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)
• Even provide a starting point for a parish/community council
Neighbourhood Plan
Scope and scale
Focused Covers everythingMore deliverable Addresses bigger issues Affordable Involves more peopleMore DIY
Simplistic ComplexNarrow in scope More expensiveExcludes some interests Needs more support
Less deliverable
Selective Comprehensive
• New support programme including grants up to £8k+ http://mycommunity.org.uk/
• Local authority duty to support – not financial• Local business and other local sources of funding• National sources of funding – e.g. Awards for All• Online – Linked in group; #neighbourhoodplanning
Support