Issue - meetings

To update members on progress with the development of a new local plan.

A progress update was provided with regard to the development of the new local plan. During discussion, the following comments were made:

·         The risk of confusion in consulting on the local plan at the same time as some areas were undertaking the neighbourhood development planning process

·         The importance of broadband installation and climate change mitigation policies within the new local plan

·         The need to communicate clearly to the public that there were several stages to the process with later stages containing more detailed information about site allocations and housing numbers and the need to retain their engagement throughout the lengthy processes

·         The number of other consultations taking place in relation to planning towards the end of 2021.

A member expressed concern that a consultation event was not taking place in Barwell or Earl Shilton given that the sustainable urban extensions in those areas had not yet been delivered and residents should have the opportunity to see how this was impacted by the local plan. In responses, officers stated they were happy to meet with individual town and parish councils and would consider the request to hold events in further areas.