Following the successful examination of the Portland Neighbourhood Plan, Dorset Council has agreed to allow the plan, as amended, to progress to referendum.
The plan was drawn up by local people and supported by the town council.
What is a neighbourhood plan?
Neighbourhood plans were introduced in the Localism Act 2011 and aim 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.
When will the referendum take place?
The regulations linked to the Coronavirus Act 2020 mean that no elections or referendums can take place until 6 May 2021. This includes neighbourhood planning referendums. These measures mean that neighbourhood plans may come into force later than they would otherwise have done.
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic the Government has updated planning guidance on neighbourhood plans. It sets out that plans awaiting referendums can be given significant weight in decision-making.
Dorset Council has published a Decision Statement detailing its intention to send the Portland Neighbourhood Plan to referendum. The Portland Neighbourhood Plan can now be given significant weight in making decisions on planning applications in the neighbourhood plan area.
Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, said:
“Neighbourhood plans are an important part of the planning process. Giving local communities a say on the development of their local area.
“We are in challenging times, but we will make sure that processes continue to be democratic.”
View the plan
