Neighbourhood Plan

A local neighbourhood plan is a tool created under the Localism Act 2011 in England, which gives parish and town councils a direct role in shaping the development of their community. Farrington Gurney Parish Council is creating its own plan with the help of external experts and a cross-section of village volunteers. Here’s how it helps a parish council influence planning in its area:

1. Community-led vision
   • The plan is developed by the parish council in consultation with residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
   • This means it reflects local priorities (e.g., housing types, green spaces, infrastructure) rather than just higher-level strategic policies.
2. Influence on planning decisions
   • Once a neighbourhood plan is formally adopted (“made”), it becomes part of the statutory development plan for the area.
   • This means that local planning authorities must consider it when deciding planning applications.
   • Effectively, it gives the parish council a legal voice in shaping what gets approved.
3. Control over development type and design
   • The parish council can set policies on:
     • Where new housing should go.
     • The type and design of housing (e.g., more affordable housing, downsizer homes, or heritage-sensitive design).
     • Protecting green spaces, community facilities, or important views.
     • Encouraging local economic development (like small business spaces).
4. Balancing growth with protection
   • The parish council can guide how growth happens in a way that supports sustainability, infrastructure, and community identity, while also protecting what residents value.
5. Access to funding
   • Areas with a neighbourhood plan in place get a greater share of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money from development.
   • This funding can be used for local projects such as play areas, village halls, or transport improvements.
6. Stronger negotiating position
   • A neighbourhood plan gives the parish council greater leverage in discussions with developers and the planning authority, because its policies carry legal weight.

In short, a local neighbourhood plan helps the village translate community wishes into enforceable planning policy, ensuring that future development aligns with the character, needs, and priorities of its local area.

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Important – Please review the draft Neighbourhood plan and share your valued comments. 

Go to the feedback form

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Please view the Marhamchurch Local Plan as a good example