Decision details

Consideration was given to recommendation HP 24/42 of the Housing and Planning Scrutiny Select Committee of 3 December 2024 in respect of the Local Plan Engagement and Consultation Strategy.

Cabinet had due regard to the views of the Scrutiny Select Committee, the financial and value for money considerations and the legal implications and supported the commitment to regular dialogue with parish/town councils and communities via the Parish Partnership Panel and the Tonbridge Community Forum, welcomed the use of consultation/drop-in sessions; virtual exhibitions; a digital consultation platform and digital maps and recognised the benefits of collecting information on-line for easier assessment.

RESOLVED:  That

(1)            the Local Plan Engagement and Consultation Strategy (attached at Annex 1) be approved;

(2)            the Engagement Programme (attached at Annex 2) be endorsed; and

(3)            the updates provided in relation to the Local Plan, including the likely increase in the annual budget allocation to the Local Plan reserve that would be required to progress a Local Plan under a revised National Planning Policy Framework be noted.