First neighbourhood plan formally submitted
The first neighbourhood plan has been formally submitted to Lancaster City Council by Wray with Botton Parish Council.
Wray with Botton was the first parish council in the district to submit an application to develop a neighbourhood plan for its area.
Neighbourhood planning gives communities the chance to decide where new development should be and what it should look like. For example, new homes, shops and offices. A plan must be in line with the District’s Local Plan and is subject to an independent examination and community referendum. If approved, a neighbourhood plan forms part of the district’s Local Plan and it is used in helping to make decisions on planning applications.
Having formally received a plan for the Wray with Botton Parish area, the council will undertake a final consultation with members of the public before the Neighbourhood Plan can be submitted for examination by an independent planning inspector, who will determine if the plan meets certain criteria requirements and standards.
Coun Janice Hanson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Regeneration and Planning, said: “Neighbourhood Planning is a real opportunity for our communities to positively shape their local area. We are pleased that Wray with Botton Parish Council is the first to formally submit its plan having been the first to apply to take one forward.
“On behalf of the council, I would like to acknowledge the amount of time and effort that the group has put into this over the past four years and welcome the opportunity to work together to finalise their plan over the coming months.”
Robert Partington, Chair of Wray with Botton Parish Council Neighbourhood Planning Group, said: "Many, many people have contributed to this Neighbourhood Plan. Getting to this point has been a significant achievement by the community.
“We have been mindful of the views of all concerned to meet the future needs of the area, balancing important development with conservation of this historic village set within the Forest of Bowland AONB. We have consulted carefully at every stage of its progress and believe that it reflects a broad consensus of opinion.”
Anyone wishing to be involved can view the submitted neighbourhood plan and associated documents at www.lancaster.gov.uk/wray-plan and email any comments to planningpolicy@lancaster.gov.uk or by post to Planning and Regeneration Team, Lancaster Town Hall, Dalton Square, Lancaster LA1 1PJ. Paper copies are also available for viewing in Wray Village Institute and Lancaster and Morecambe Town Halls (on request).
Deadline for representations is Monday 23rd July.
Last updated: 13 June 2018