Dr Victoria Hills
Chief Executive, The Royal Town Planning Institute
Decisions on infrastructure and development shape our environment and daily lives. However, the planning system is often complex, making it difficult for people to engage in local development decisions.
As the Government pushes forward a series of working papers focusing on planning committees, development, nature recovery, brownfield passports and infrastructure planning, now is a good time to understand how you can get involved in shaping your community through the planning process.
In the UK, we have a discretionary planning system to manage land use and development. It strives to balance economic growth with the preservation of public spaces, heritage and the environment.
Participate in local area development
For those keen to make a difference in their local area, there are numerous ways to get involved. One way is helping shape your Local Plan. Local Plans are a statutory document that plays a pivotal role in setting out the priorities for development within a specific area.
Local authorities must consider both the needs of the community and national policies when creating these plans. Supplementary documents, such as Master Plans and Area Action Plans, may also be introduced to guide development.
Understanding the planning process is crucial
for anyone interested in making a positive
change in the built and natural environment.
Public consultation in planning
Authorities are legally required to publish a Statement of Community Involvement that outlines how they will consult the public. During the evidence-gathering phase, members of the public can have their say on ‘what good looks like’ for their local communities and neighbourhoods.
Once a draft Local Plan is published, it is subject to an independent review by Government inspectors, with any concerns raised during public consultations being considered in a public meeting before the plan is formally adopted. This open and transparent process is designed to ensure that opportunities are not missed and unintended consequences of development are avoided.
Shaping your neighbourhood
Communities also have the opportunity to create Neighbourhood Development Plans. These plans, initiated by parish or town councils (or designated groups where no council exists), give local communities a direct say in the type of development that occurs. Once a draft plan is created, it is put to a community referendum. If approved, it becomes part of the official Development Plan.
Understanding the planning process is crucial for anyone interested in making a positive change in the built and natural environment. Whether you’re looking to build a new structure or alter existing properties, knowing how planning works can help you take a proactive role in helping you shape the community around you.
