Have your say on review of planning guidance

Harborough District Council is looking to create clearer guidance for residents, developers and others, on what is acceptable development in the Harborough district and what to submit with a planning application.  The Council is also looking to review its guidance for developer contributions to ensure new housing brings improved community facilities and infrastructure.

The three consultations – which will launch on Friday 11 December 2020 and run until 5pm on Friday 5 February 2021 – will seek views on Development Management Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), Local Validation List, and Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document.

Development Management Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

The Development Management SPD provides guidance to assist with the interpretation and implementation of planning legislation and the Local Plan.  It covers guidance on design principles of new residential housing estates, extensions to homes, running a business from home, converting disused buildings in the countryside, economic development, shop fronts and adverts. There is also a chapter on Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings, as well as how to address climate change and incorporate landscaping into development. 

The Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) is not policy, but offers useful guidance for people submitting planning applications as to what could be acceptable, or not, before time and money is spent on drawing up plans or investing in a site, and how and when developer contributions (section 106 agreements) may be sought.

Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

The guidance on Planning Obligations, also known as section 106 agreements, is also being reviewed and updated to reflect current legislation. The Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document sets out the approach Harborough District Council takes to secure community infrastructure and affordable housing through developer contributions. 

Local Validation List

The Local Validation List is a checklist to help people draw together the information they need to submit as part of their planning application to reduce any delays at this stage of the process. 

Cllr Jonathan Bateman, Harborough District Council’s Cabinet lead for Planning, Environment and Waste, said: “This is a real opportunity for people to help shape this important guidance. We want to ensure consistency and quality of development across the district so I hope people share their thoughts during these consultations.”

Have your say on the consultations which will be live from Friday 11 December 2020 at www.harborough.gov.uk/consultation