What is a NEIGHBOURHOOD ​PLAN?
A Neighbourhood Plan is a legally-binding document created by a local community to shape the future development and growth of their local area.
Introduced by the Localism Act 2011, these plans give communities direct power to develop a shared vision for their area, decide where new homes, shops, and offices should be built and have a say on what those buildings should look like and what infrastructure should be provided. They are also able to grant planning permission for the new buildings they want to see go ahead and identify and protect local assets like green spaces. 
​The plan must align with the broader strategic needs of the wider local authority but gives the community significant power to influence local development and growth.  ​

If you are concerned, worried, or just interested in how your village might change through building development, this is your chance to have an influence on it.
​Key aspects of a Neighbourhood Plan:
  • Community-driven:   A neighbourhood plan is written by local people and community groups. 
  • Local detail: It provides specific policies for development and land use within the neighbourhood area, such as what new buildings should look like. 
  • Supports local context:  It aligns with the Local Plan (the wider strategic plan by North Yorkshire Council) but provides more detailed local policies. 
  • Legal weight: Once approved by a local referendum and formally adopted by the local planning authority, it becomes a part of the local planning framework and must be taken into account when assessing planning applications. 
  • Scope:  Plans can identify and allocate key sites for new development and set out policies on how new buildings should look, density, and the provision of infrastructure.
​The Process of Creating a Neighbourhood Plan
typically involves:

1. Establishment: 
Forming a steering group and defining the neighbourhood area. 

2. Evidence and Consultation: Gathering evidence, engaging the community, and consulting on a draft plan. This may include surveys and public meetings.

3. Examination: An independent examiner reviews the plan to ensure it meets legal requirements.

4. Referendum: If the plan passes examination, residents vote on it in a local referendum.

​5. Adoption: The local authority formally adopts the plan if the referendum is successful.