Issue - meetings

To consider the report on the Local Plan Statement of Community Involvement.

RESOLVED to agree the draft Statement of Community Involvement for a six week consultation aiming to begin from 7 January to 18 February, subject to alignment with the publication of the updated Sustainability Appraisal.

The Local Plan Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) had been updated in preparation for the submission of the Local Plan to the Secretary of State. The Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services said the document would set out the Council’s approach to public engagement and involvement in the preparation of the Local Plan. She highlighted the recommendation outlined in the report and said a degree of flexibility was required in relation to the dates of the consultation, as it would be better if the SCI was sent out for consultation at the same time as the Sustainability Appraisal.

Councillor Light asked why the Public Engagement Working Group (PEWG) had not been involved in the preparation of this document.

The Chief Executive said the PEWG would be welcome to take part and comment on the draft SCI during the consultation.

In response to a Member question, the Leader said the final version of the Sustainability Appraisal should be available in late December. 

RESOLVED to agree the draft Statement of Community Involvement for a six week consultation aiming to begin from 7 January to 18 February, subject to alignment with the publication of the updated Sustainability Appraisal.