Neighbourhood Planning
Neighbourhood planning gives local communities a chance to shape how their area develops in the future.
Through a neighbourhood plan, communities can set planning policies that reflect local needs, priorities and character. Once adopted, neighbourhood plans are used alongside the Fenland Local Plan when planning applications are decided.
Preparing a neighbourhood plan is optional and is led by the local community.
What is a Neighbourhood Plan?
A neighbourhood plan is a planning document prepared by a parish or town council. It can include policies on topics such as:
- Where new development should go
- The design and character of new buildings
- Protecting green spaces and important local features
Neighbourhood plans must follow national planning policy and be in general conformity with the Fenland Local Plan.
Who does what?
- Parish and town councils lead the preparation of neighbourhood plans and community engagement
- Fenland District Council has a legal role to make sure the correct process is followed and that plans meet national requirements
- Local people and organisations can comment at key stages and help shape the final plan
Fenland District Council does not write neighbourhood plans but plays an important role at consultation, examination and adoption stages.
Adopted and emerging Neighbourhood Plans in Fenland
Fenland currently has neighbourhood plans at different stages of preparation.
The following neighbourhood plans have been formally adopted and now form part of the statutory development plan for Fenland:
These plans are used alongside the Fenland Local Plan when planning decisions are made.
Several parish councils in Fenland are preparing neighbourhood plans. These plans are known as emerging neighbourhood plans and are at different stages of development, including community consultation.
Emerging plans may be given some weight in planning decisions, depending on how far they have progressed and how consistent they are with national and local planning policy.
Designated Neighbourhood Areas
Before a neighbourhood plan can be prepared, a neighbourhood area must be formally designated.
Information on:
- designated neighbourhood areas
- adopted neighbourhood plans
- emerging neighbourhood plans
- areas where plans are no longer being progressed
is available on the Designated Neighbourhood Areas webpage.
Thinking about a Neighbourhood Plan?
If a parish or town council is considering preparing a neighbourhood plan, the first step is to apply for neighbourhood area designation and to discuss the idea early in the process.
For informal advice, contact the Neighbourhood Planning team at: planningpolicy@fenland.gov.uk
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