Transcript DPD Examinations – Early Lessons

DPD Examinations –
Early Experiences
Keith Holland
Inspector Manager Planning
Inspectorate
Rigour of the Examination
 Examination will be based on the tests of of
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soundness – they need to be taken very
seriously.
Concept of spatial planning is critical
CS must show how regional and national
policies have been developed into locally
distinctive policies
Bland “anywhere” policies are not acceptable
Examination starts at submission. Evidence
base should be complete and comprehensive at
this stage
Changes
 Do not expect to be able to make
substantial pre-examination changes
 Scope for Inspector changes limited
 Sustainability and consultation critical
considerations
Options
 Proving to be a difficult area for many local
planning authorities
 Options must be properly evaluated
 Evidence on submission must show how
and why final choice made
 Avoid “2 deposit stages in disguise”
approach i.e. keep an open mind
Core Strategies
 Must set out the key elements of the planning
framework for the area – effectively the lead
document
 In the first instance think strategy not policy
 Must be internally consistent and relate to other
strategies and plans including the Community
Strategy
 Broad locations and priority areas for action
rather than sites- key diagram approach
Content of Core Strategies
normally to include:
 Settlement strategy based on a hierarchy of settlements
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and resultant spread of development
Strategy for promoting well-being of the local economy
Housing and employment land supply evidence
Transport strategies that promote sustainable
development
Hierarchy of centres with expected role of each
Broad approach to affordable housing
Rural strategy if appropriate to promote social and
economic well-being of the rural areas/villages
A limited suite of topic based development control
policies may be included setting out criteria against
which proposals may be judged
Flexibility
 Delay not acceptable
 Dealing with possible changes to regional
spatial strategies
 Plan monitor manage concept
Hearing part of examination
 Informal approach proving successful
 Culture change regarding submission of
documents remains an issue
 Challenging for all parties