There is a lot of information out there pertaining to Neighbourhood Plans. Please follow the links below to discover other resources.
Disclaimer: Links to external sites do not imply an endorsement of the opinions or ideas expressed therein, or guarantee the validity of the information provided. Whilst every effort is made from this website to ensure that the information on this site is accurate and up to date, no responsibility for errors and omissions can be accepted.
National Planning Policy
Planning, building and the environment
The UK government’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out planning policies for England and how they should be applied. It provides a framework within which locally-prepared plans for housing and other development can be produced. Key aspects include:
- Promoting sustainable development
- Delivering a sufficient supply of homes
- Building a strong, competitive economy
- Protecting Green Belt land
- Conserving and enhancing the natural environment
The government regularly updates this framework to reflect current priorities and challenges in planning and development.
Northumberland County Council
Planning and Buildings
Northumberland County Council’s planning department is responsible for:
- Processing planning applications
- Developing local plans
- Enforcing planning regulations
- Providing guidance on building control
- Conservation of historic buildings and areas
Their website offers resources for residents, developers, and businesses operating within Northumberland, including online planning application services and local planning policies.
Locality
One of the Government’s selected organisations delivering help to communities in developing their Neighbourhood Plan.
Locality is a national network supporting community organisations. In the context of planning, they:
- Provide guidance on creating Neighbourhood Plans
- Offer funding advice for community-led projects
- Share best practices from successful community initiatives
- Advocate for policies that empower local communities
Their resources are particularly valuable for groups looking to take an active role in shaping their local area through Neighbourhood Planning.
The Planning Portal
The Planning Portal is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. It offers:
- Online planning and building control applications
- Guidance on planning permission and building regulations
- Interactive houses and mini-guides to common projects
- A professional portal for planning and building professionals
- Fee calculators for planning applications
It serves as a one-stop-shop for planning and building regulation information and services in England and Wales.
Alnwick Town Council
The Alnwick Town Council website provides local information specific to Alnwick, including:
- Local planning issues and consultations
- Community events and initiatives
- Council services and facilities
- Local development plans and strategies
- Contact information for local councillors and council staff
It’s an essential resource for residents and businesses in Alnwick looking for town-specific planning and community information.
Planning Aid
Planning Aid England provides free, independent and professional planning advice to communities and individuals who cannot afford to pay professional fees.
Planning Aid England, run by the Royal Town Planning Institute, offers:
- Free, independent and professional planning advice
- Support for communities engaging in the planning system
- Resources to help people understand and engage with planning
- Assistance with Neighbourhood Planning
- Training and capacity building for community groups
Their services are particularly aimed at individuals and communities who cannot afford to pay for professional planning advice, helping to ensure that everyone can have a voice in the planning process not just from the A&D Plan so please check out the links above to see if they can your situation.