A local referendum on the Penrith Neighbourhood Development Plan (PNDP) was held on Thursday 28 November to decide whether the local community were in favour of the plan being used to help decide planning applications in the area.
The result was 1,131 in favour of the PNDP and 240 against. The turnout of electors was 10.17 per cent.
In accordance with Section 38A (4) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (as amended), the Westmorland and Furness Council must now "make" the plan as more than half of those voting were in favour. The decision to "make" the plan will be made at a Cabinet meeting held at a date to be confirmed.
Neighbourhood planning gives communities direct power to develop a shared vision for their neighbourhood and shape the development and growth of their local area. A neighbourhood plan ultimately forms part of the Development Plan – policies which local authorities use to determine planning applications.
When approved, the PNDP will become formally adopted and have equivalent weight in decision making to the Local Plan as part of the Development Plan.
The PNDP was drawn up by Penrith Town Council after consultation with local residents and businesses. The policies proposed in the plan include:
• Environmentally sustainable design
• Energy use and reducing carbon emissions
• Accessibility and social inclusion
• Conservation areas in Penrith
• High quality new homes
• Housing type and mix
• Identifying and protecting local green space
• Protecting and enhancing sport, leisure and recreation facilities
• Protecting and enhancing health and community facilities
• Walking and cycling
• Town centre improvements
More information about the PNDP is available on the Penrith Town Council website.
