Must the village have a Neighbourhood Plan?
There is no legal requirement for the Parish Council to develop a neighbourhood plan; however, the plan will allow the community of Woodhall Spa to have a say in the future development of the village.
What is the authority for the Neighbourhood Plan?
Neighbourhood plans were introduced under the Localism Act in 2012
Will the plan stop further development in the village?
No, ELDC core strategy due to be published in 2014 will define the minimum number of houses to be built in the village in the next 15 years. Currently it is envisaged ELDC will require xxx (this number is not yet fixed) houses, of which 25% must be affordable homes, be built on identified sites in and around the village.
What will the plan influence?
The plan will set policies yet to be defined but may include guidance to developers on size, shape, style and location. The content of the plan will be developed after further consultation with residents.
Does the community have a say in the plan?
Yes. Residents have already been requested to complete a questionnaire and in the coming months will have the opportuni
ty to attend focus groups. We have a web site (www.woodhallspaneighbourhoodplan.co.uk) to provide information on the evolving plan, to allow for comment and to provide an interactive map where potential development sites can be identified.
When will the plan be published?
The results from the questionnaire have been analysed. We hope to be able to distribute a summary of the findings before Xmas. The NP steering group is now conducting focus groups to back up the questionnaire and contacting stakeholders to seek their views. Early 2014, the SG will start writing the plan. Once the plan is written there will be a 6 week formal consultation period. Only then does the plan goes to examination to ensure that it complies with all relevant UK and EU policies. Once the plan has passed this scrutiny, it goes to a referendum
What question will be asked in the referendum?
“Do you want ELDC to use the neighbourhood plan for Woodhall Spa to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?”
Must ELDC adopt the WSNP?
Yes. After the referendum, assuming a ‘yes’ vote, the plan goes to full council for adoption (or “making”).
What happens if the plan is rejected at referendum?
If the plan is rejected, the residents of Woodhall Spa will lose an opportunity to influence the future of the village.
