Navigating Local Government Reform: Parish Councils' Evolving Role in Planning

As local government in England continues its journey of reform, parish and town councils find themselves at a crucial juncture, particularly concerning their influence and responsibilities within the planning system. With ongoing devolution efforts and a renewed focus on localism, understanding these changes is paramount for effective community representation.

The Shifting Landscape of Local Planning

Over the past few years, we've witnessed significant discussions and proposals aimed at streamlining the planning process, accelerating housing delivery, and empowering local communities. While the initial ambitious planning reforms outlined in the 2020 Planning White Paper have been refined, the underlying drive for greater local involvement and efficiency persists. The Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023, now law, brings into sharper focus several key areas that directly impact parish councils.

One of the most significant aspects is the emphasis on Neighbourhood Planning. The Act strengthens the status of Neighbourhood Plans, making them a more powerful tool in shaping local development. This isn't a new concept, but the legislative backing reinforces their weight in decision-making, providing a robust framework for communities to articulate their vision for local growth.

Empowering Parishes Through Neighbourhood Planning

The Local Government Association (LGA) has consistently advocated for stronger local voices in planning, recognising the invaluable insights that parish councils and local communities bring. Their guidance often highlights the potential for Neighbourhood Plans to bridge the gap between strategic district-level policies and the specific needs of a parish.

For example, a well-developed Neighbourhood Plan can:

• Allocate sites for housing and employment: Directly influencing where development occurs.
• Establish design codes: Ensuring new buildings reflect local character and enhance the area.
• Protect green spaces and local heritage assets: Safeguarding the unique qualities of a parish.
• Identify infrastructure needs: Guiding investment in roads, schools, and community facilities.

This level of influence, however, requires proactive engagement and robust evidence gathering. Parish councils must be prepared to invest time and resources into developing these plans, often working with local residents and professional consultants.

Practical Takeaways for Parish Councils

1. Embrace Neighbourhood Planning: If your parish doesn't have one, now is the time to consider initiating a Neighbourhood Plan. If you do, review and update it to ensure it remains relevant and aligns with any new district-level Local Plan policies. Resources from organisations like Locality and NALC offer invaluable support and guidance on the process.
2. Strengthen Engagement with Principal Authorities: Maintain open lines of communication with your district or unitary council's planning department. Understanding their strategic priorities and Local Plan development timelines will help your parish plan effectively and ensure your Neighbourhood Plan is in conformity.
3. Invest in Training and Expertise: Planning legislation and policy are complex. Encourage councillors and clerks to undertake training on planning matters. The Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) and various county associations offer courses specifically tailored to the sector.
4. Leverage Technology for Transparency: Ensure all planning applications relevant to your parish are easily accessible and publicised to residents. Utilise your council website and social media to inform and consult the community on proposals and your council's responses.
5. Evidence-Based Decision Making: When responding to planning applications or developing policies, ensure your arguments are backed by evidence, whether it's local housing needs assessments, environmental surveys, or community consultations. This strengthens your position and increases your influence.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

The ongoing reforms present both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, there's a clear legislative push for greater localism, empowering parish councils to shape their areas. On the other, the complexity of the planning system, coupled with resource constraints, can be daunting. The role of the parish clerk in navigating these changes, advising councillors, and managing the process becomes even more critical.

As the government continues to refine its approach to local government and planning, staying informed and proactive will be key. The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG), now part of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), consistently publishes updates and guidance on GOV.UK, which should be regularly monitored.

Council Clearsight understands the intricacies councils face in demonstrating their effectiveness and transparency. Our VDTI framework helps parish and town councils assess their current standing, identify areas for improvement, and showcase their commitment to good governance, including how they engage with crucial areas like planning. By understanding your current VDTI score, you can pinpoint where to focus your efforts to become an even more influential and accountable voice for your community.