Neighbourhood Planning scheme working well say communities
Release Date 31 October 2014
Over 90% of people say the process of creating their Neighbourhood Plan had gone satisfactorily or well, according to a report published today, 31 October, by the University of Reading and Locality.
User Experience of Neighbourhood Planning in England saw 120 participant groups being interviewed about preparing a neighbourhood plan for their community. Most viewed the Government scheme as a useful process with further potential, although not without challenges. 82% of people said they had been able to access the skills and knowledge needed for neighbourhood planning.
The report also found that communities had overcome the difficulties encountered, often with the aid of consultant support, or the local authority, or both. However some thought that a better explanation of what was involved, more support from local authorities and more guidance could help improve the neighbourhood planning process.
Neighbourhood Planning was introduced through the Localism Act 2011 with neighbourhood planning powers came into effect in April 2012. The initiative gives communities direct power to develop a shared vision for their neighbourhood and shape the development and growth of their local area. Communities can decide where new homes, shops and offices can be built, have their say on what those new buildings should look like and what infrastructure should be provided, and grant planning permission for the new development they want to see go ahead.
User Experience of Neighbourhood Planning in England is the first primary research of its kind; gathering information gained directly from people involved in preparing a neighbourhood plan for their community. The report reinforces the University Reading as a leading centre for work examining planning and communities.
Professor Gavin Parker, from the School of Real Estate and Planning, Henley Business School, University of Reading, led the research project. He said: "It's very good news that so many people are willing to engage in shaping their future. Well over 1000 communities are working on Neighbourhood Plans already. This report will aid policymakers, planners and neighbourhoods to shape the future of Neighbourhood planning and also highlights aspects of the policy initiative which are a work in progress."
The report comes in the wake of an announcement today by the Department of Communities and Local Government of new funding (£23.5m) to encourage more communities across England to get involved the scheme.
Please do contact either: Gavin Parker g.parker@reading.ac.uk or James Barr j.w.barr@reading.ac.uk for more information