A local community has taken a significant step closer to having greater influence over planning decisions in their area. Buckhorn Weston and Kington Magna parish council has submitted a new neighbourhood plan for examination.
The plan has been drawn up by local people, and agreed by the parish council, who feel confident that the plan reflects the hopes and views of the local community.
Neighbourhood plans were introduced in the Localism Act 2011. Their aim is to give residents more say in the future use of land and buildings in their area. For example, the plan can say where new homes, shops or offices might be built or where important green spaces might be protected.
If the neighbourhood plan is approved following examination, and supported by a local referendum, it will be used to make decisions on planning applications. Dorset Council is required to consult on the plan proposals before the examination can take place.
People who live, work or run a business in the Buckhorn Weston and Kington Magna neighbourhood area have until Friday 22 December 2023 to raise any concerns they may have about the plan. These concerns will then be passed on to an independent examiner to consider.
Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, said:
“It takes a tremendous amount of work to pull together a Neighbourhood Plan. I congratulate all involved in getting to this stage.
“I would encourage anyone with an interest in the future development of Buckhorn Weston and Kington Magna to view the plans and submit any feedback they may have.”
The plan can be viewed online . The website can also be used for submitting comments.
Copies of the Neighbourhood Plan will also be available for public inspection at: Gillingham public library; St John the Baptist Church, Buckhorn Weston; The Stapleton Arms, Buckhorn Weston; All Saints Church, Kington Magna; and Kington Magna Social Club. At all locations, this will be during the venue’s normal opening hours.
Anyone commenting on the plan should let the council know if they wish to be kept informed of the progress of the Buckhorn Weston and Kington Magna Neighbourhood Plan.
