Issue 8 - October 2024

Local Plan updates

Mendip Local Plan update: New housing sites identified after legal challenge

We've submitted proposals to the Planning Inspectorate for independent examination to update the Mendip Local Plan Part II (LPP2) which runs to 2029.

The LPP2 site allocations plan was adopted by the former Mendip District Council in December 2021 but was subject to a successful legal challenge. The High Court deleted 5 housing sites from the LPP2 and ordered us to reconsider and identify sites for at least 505 dwellings in the former Mendip District area.

Local Plan engagement activity with local councils

We're pleased to share that we've begun a new engagement activity with City, Town, and Parish Councils to help in the early stages of developing the new Local Plan for Somerset.

Local Councils hold valuable knowledge about their areas and settlements, and therefore play a key role in voicing the experiences of their communities.

This activity aims to check the data and information we've gathered so far, which informs our understanding about how settlements currently operate.

Somerset Local Plan Progress update

Stock image by tigerlily713 from Pixabay

Our latest biannual update on the Local Plan for Somerset is now available online. This comprehensive document provides an in-depth look at the progress we’ve made, key milestones, and our future plans.

Whether you’re a stakeholder, a community member, or simply interested in the development of our region, this report offers valuable insights into our planning process and the collaborative efforts driving it forward.

Check it out to stay informed and engaged with the steps we’re taking to shape a sustainable and thriving future for Somerset.

Neighbourhood Plan updates

Have your say on the Neighbourhood Plan for Cannington

Cannington featuring St. Mary’s Church

In accordance with regulations, we're consulting on the submission of Cannington Parish Council's Neighbourhood Plan prior to review by an independent examiner.

Copies of the documents are available via our Neighbourhood Planning page or in paper form at Cannington Parish Council.

We're now consulting on Shepton Mallet's Neighbourhood Plan

Credit: John Wickes

Shepton Mallet Town Council has submitted its Neighbourhood Plan to us.

The Town Council has already consulted widely on the Plan with residents, businesses and a whole range of interest groups during the production of the Plan and we're now publicising the plan for 6 weeks, inviting responses before the plan is considered by an Independent Examiner.

The plan will then be subject to a referendum, before finally being adopted if local people vote for it.

Latest NPPF news

5 Year Housing Land Supply update

The Government's National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) advises that Local Planning Authorities should identify a supply of specific deliverable sites sufficient to provide 5 years’ worth of housing against their housing requirements.

The purpose is to provide an indication of whether there are sufficient sites available to meet the housing requirements set out in adopted strategic policies for the next 5 years.