Local Plan inquiry set to start

Full details of the programme, showing the dates and subject matter of each session, are available on the programme officer’s website at http://www.eastdevon.gov.uk/progofficer

Proceedings will last for just under one month and in that time the Inspector will hear evidence from the council, community organisations, protest groups and landowners and developers in the district.

The Inquiry will cover all aspects of the Draft Local Plan, looking at how the council proposes to tackle issues like affordable housing, employment, tourism and retail, climate change and the natural environment. There will also be sessions focusing on each of the seven towns in East Devon.

The Inspector’s role is to consider whether the council’s Local Plan meets the requirements of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and associated regulations and whether it is sound in accordance with the guidance in the National Planning Policy Framework.

To be sound, the plan must be positively prepared; justified; effective and consistent with national policy.

Councillor Andrew Moulding, deputy leader and strategic development and partnerships, said:

“Our Local Plan, like many others across the country, has generated considerable interest and debate.

“We have done our best to capture how people believe East Devon should develop over the coming years whilst aiming to comply with Government policy

“Public examination of the plan offers another chance for supporters and objectors to present their cases but this time it will be an entirely independent body listening to those views.

“The Inquiry is of great importance for the future of East Devon. We look forward to finalising our new planning policy document as soon as we can.”

Please note the Inspector will not allow filming/photography in the Council Chamber either before or during the sessions.