We haven’t posted for a few weeks now – taking a breather after the flurry of activites surrounding the final deadline for submissions to the Independent Inspector. Too late to submit any written representations. Now we wait to find out the initial response of the Inspector to SGC revisions, and presumably await the publication of a timetable for public hearings. We will keep you posted as the news breaks.
Meanwhile, please be informed that the date for the lauch of the Thornbury Community Plan has been postponed. It was initially intended to take place next week, but is now planned to take place on Thursday 10th May at 7.30pm at The Cossham Hall. Apologies for any confusion or diary clashes that may ensue. What this does mean, however, is that a timely free training event, being offered by CPRE, may be of interest and value to people interested in planning issues, shaped by the new Localism Act.
Details pasted below:
Interested in planning? CPRE are offering a free event in Bristol
Planning our future: The Localism Act and neighbourhood planning
Saturday March 24, 2012
9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Armada House, Telephone Avenue, Bristol BS1 4BQ
Free but booking is required
The Localism Act is intended to give communities a real voice in the planning system. It allows community groups to form ‘Neighbourhood Forums’ and to create Neighbourhood Development Plans, to help shape development in their area.
But how will it work in practice? How much power will community groups really have? And just how will decisions be made about which groups act as the Neighbourhood Forum for their area?
If you are interested in planning and development in your area and you want to learn more about how the Localism Act will work, CPRE is running a conference in Bristol to try to answer those questions. It is open to individuals and community groups who want to learn how to have a real voice in planning for their local area.
Speakers will include Paul Miner (CPRE Senior Planning Campaigner) and Sarah O’Driscoll (Bristol City Council Strategic Planning Service Manager).
There will be talks by ‘front-runner’ groups about the reality of producing Neighbourhood Development Plans, and discussions on the more awkward questions that the Localism Bill has brought up – just what are the limits of Localism? How can community groups effectively involve and engage the people in their area in planning? And can communities really use the Localism Act to say no to unwanted development?
Lunch will be provided – please let us know if you have any dietary requirements.
Places for this event are limited and will be allocated ‘first come first served’.
For more information or to book a place, please contact:
Joe Evans
CPRE Avonside
07854 741130
director@cpreavonside.org.uk
Supporting Communities and Neighbourhoods in Planning is a joint project between CPRE and the National Association of Local Councils, funded by DCLG.
