Decision details

The Horsmonden Neighbourhood Development Plan (HNDP) has been successful at examination, with the independent examiner recommending that the  HNDP should proceed to referendum, subject to a number of recommended modifications.

RESOLVED –

1. That the independent examiner’s report on the Horsmonden Neighbourhood Development Plan (HNDP) at Appendix A be noted and published.

2. That following discussions with Horsmonden Parish Council the HNDP be modified as set out in Appendix B be approved.  In addition, changes to Policy 4.4 of the HNDP (as detailed in paragraphs 2.20 – 2.22) be included be approved.

3. That publication of the Decision Statement at Appendix C and a decision to progress the HNDP as set out in Appendix D to referendum be approved.

4. That the plan forms part of the statutory development plan for the Neighbourhood Area (Horsmonden Parish) immediately following a positive referendum outcome on the HNDP, with more than 50% of the vote, and does not have to wait until it is made.  That Cabinet then recommends to the Council that in the event that the referendum result on the HNDP is positive, the Council formally makes the HNDP as set out in Appendix D, which will subsequently be considered at the next Full Council post-referendum be approved. 

5. That the referendum will take place on 8 June 2023 and if passed will go to Full Council on 5 July 2023 be approved. 

REASON FOR DECISION:Approved Neighbourhood Plans become part of the development plan for the Borough and are a key document in the determination of planning applications that allow the local community to take responsibility for land use planning in their area.