Interesting perspective from Alder King on neighbourhood planning:

“a critical flaw in the process is the need for a Neighbourhood Plan to be adopted following a referendum at the end of the planning process. Placing such a critical hurdle at the end of what will be a costly and protracted process will we suspect deter community groups from taking part. Furthermore, on the basis that any Neighbourhood Plan must maintain conformity with Local Plans, and therefore cannot be used as a means to challenge development, again may deter community groups from engaging with the neighbourhood planning process….. There is a real risk that the only sectors of the community able to engage in the process will be those who have the deepest pockets and the ability to shout the loudest.”

Find the full article at Property News.