Localism & Neighbourhood Planning Pat Steward Feb 2012

Localism The Localism Act 2011 sets out a series of changes in law to achieve a substantial and lasting shift in power from central government to local communities. Big changes in planning!! Regulations yet to set out exactly what changes, but…..

Planning always tried to be inclusive, but.. “Tell us and we forget…..” LP / LDF Old system Area Action Plans National RSS / Structure Plans Development

Neighbourhood Plan New system Local Development Plan Neighbourhood Plan NPPF “Tell us and we forget; show us and we remember; involve us and we understand.” 1000:52 Sustainable Growth

Is there a Contradiction between Localism and Growth? Localism Growth

Big Messages Get on with it – local councils, communities and land owners should not hold back on doing work; delay is not an option; take a less risk averse approach. Not nimbyism – Localism is very different from nimbyism; there are new funding streams for communities that support growth / change; no change and no growth – as an entrenched position – is not seen as an option by Government. Planning, but without the system – there is now less emphasis on the ‘system’ or process, and more emphasis on creativity, innovation, participation, integration and high quality outcomes. Consensus – there is a need for an inclusive approach that builds consensus, rather than an exclusive approach dominated by a vociferous minority; we need to tap into the views, expertise and resource of the ‘quiet majority’. Core Strategy - Must move forward with this and quickly; will set baseline levels for neighbourhood plans; get involved

Parallel tracking 12 – 15 months In Torbay LDP B T P

Spatial Strategy Spaceless SmartStrategic using existing buildings where possible (e.g. NHB & vacant properties) edge of towns, sustainable green field, benefits, £s for infrastructure PDL and urban sites; smart business space; family housing; town centres

Constrained, balanced growth Mainly urban areas Some greenfield, with community support Parallel tracking = £s for regeneration and infrastructure 10,000 new homes (9,300 to consume own smoke) 15,000 jobs Split roughly as follows to reflect ‘capacity’ and needs Torquay: 4K houses; 5K + jobs Paignton: 5K houses; 4K + jobs Brixham: 1K houses: 1K + jobs

Not just homes……..

What are Neighbourhood Plans Those that know about and care for an area also plan for it – communities determining their own futures led by the community - Neighbourhood Forums (residential, business, interest); Building neighbourhoods – not stopping growth; should deliver growth in excess of levels in the Core Strategy. Part of statutory Development Plan Need to be examined and approved by a local referendum (although this may change in emerging Regulations). Local Development Orders- can extend local permitted development rights. Community Right To Build- communities can develop land ‘Chapters’ for smaller communities / areas, setting out needs etc..

LOCAL AUTHORITY AS MAIN RESOURCE /FACILITATOR / ADVISOR Who? NEIGHBOURHOOD FORUM AT HEART – LEADING ON ENGAGEMENT

How? Getting started Forum set up; business plan; inclusive; skills audit; roles; sustainability appraisal; history. Developing a Vision and Objectives Review Core Strategy visions for towns; profiling community; appraisal of place; priorities; the art of the possible; engagement Developing a Plan Detailed assessment of potential / benefits/ impacts; Neighbourhood Development Orders; Right to Build Orders; 5 – 10 year delivery plan Testing the Plan Torbay Council approval; referendum; independent examination

Who is doing what? Established Forum in each NP area; properly constituted etc Brixham Peninsula: Chair - Jackie Stockman; Brixham Design Statement; CGB catching up. Paignton: Chair – David Watts; SWOT; 3 sub-groups: Town Centre & Seafront; Rest of Plan area; Community Engagement Torquay: Chair – Suzie Colley; sub-groups include youth, town centre regeneration; sustainable communities; tourism. Princes Foundation support