SLDC seeks LDF submissions on National Planning Policy Framework

1 June 2012

South Lakeland District Council is seeking submissions on the Land Allocations Development Plan Document’s (DPD) conformity with the Government’s recently issued National Planning Policy framework (NPPF).

Towards the end of the previous consultation period, the Government published a new National Planning Policy Framework which replaces most existing national planning policies. The Inspector will look closely at whether the Land Allocations document conforms with national policy.

To help the Inspector and ensure everyone can have their say on this important issue, SLDC is seeking further submissions on whether the Land Allocations Document is in conformity with the National Planning Policy framework (NPPF).

The council has now submitted its DPD to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. The Secretary will shortly appoint a Planning Inspector to carry out an Independent examination of the Land Allocations document, taking into account the representations that people have made in the recent consultation exercise. The inspector will set the timetable for hearings and submission of the Inspector’s report. SLDC is the first authority in the North West to reach this milestone.

Leader of SLDC, Cllr Peter Thornton, said: “This is a major step which marks the start of the independent examination process. We want to give people the fullest possible opportunity to have their say on how the new National Planning Policy Framework affects the Land Allocations Document.

“This latest requests for submissions will give a further opportunity for residents to put comments forward on whether they believe the DPD is compliant with the Government’s planning policy. I must stress that it is not a chance to repeat any comments already submitted during the previous consultation stages as these will already have been submitted to the Secretary of State.”

Submissions are invited on this matter between Friday 1 June and 5pm on Monday 16 July 2012 either by letter or email. Submissions will be forwarded to the Inspector to be taken into account in examining the soundness of the DPD. All relevant documents, including the NPPF and DPD, are available as part of the DPD submission documents on our website at http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/ and at council offices and libraries from 1st June 2012.

Submissions can be made in writing to Development Plans Manager, South Lakeland District Council, South Lakeland House, Lowther Street, Kendal, LA9 4DL. Or by email to developmentplans@southlakeland.gov.uk