What is Neighbourhood Planning … and a Neighbourhood Plan?
Photos courtesy of This Is Kelham
Neighbourhood planning (introduced in the 2011 Localism Act) gives communities the statutory power to make planning priorities for their area, and to engage in community development projects.
A Neighbourhood Plan can include priorities and projects like these:
• Plan where new homes, businesses and shops are built and what they look like.
• Identify key uses, buildings, areas and views.
• Develop and protect green spaces.
• Create public spaces.
• Develop facilities such as community buildings.
• Encourage walking, cycling and public transport.
It must fit with broader planning priorities, including the City’s Local Plan, The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and relevant national and international legislation. It lasts for five years before review.
What does it involve?
The process begins with collecting evidence about the local area and importantly finding out what all local residents think about their area.
Policies are then written and formed into a Neighbourhood Plan, which has to meet certain Basic Conditions and pass an independent examination. At this point, the Plan goes to a referendum where everyone within the Plan boundary can vote on whether to accept the Plan or not.
If the Plan receives more than 50% support it will become a statutory document that Sheffield City Council, planning officers and developers have to take into account when making future planning decisions
Who can get
involved?
Anyone who lives or works within the boundary of a Neighbourhood Plan can become involved in the process.
If you want to get involved, please register on the Consultations tab.
Who supports the Neighbourhood
Planning process?
The Council help with some of the work and partnerships with professionals and institutions can provide valuable inputs.
There are very limited cash funds available to the Forum as well.