To approve a project plan for the preparation of the update of the Herefordshire Local Plan.

That:

a)    the project plan for the Local Plan update in Appendix 1 to this report be approved;

b)    the project plan be maintained as a live document, with any significant change subject to the approval of the Cabinet Member; and

c)    the Assistant Director for Regulation, Environment & Waste is given authority for commissioning the evidence base studies set out in the project plan in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Transport.

1.          There is no regulatory requirement to produce a project plan.  The plan making process is regulated by Local Planning regulations and advice and guidance is set out in both the National Planning Policy Framework and national planning policy guidance.

2.          However, preparing a project plan enables the establishment of timelines, costs and resources required for each stage in the process thereby improving the chances of achieving milestones and enables a better understanding of likely risks.  A recent peer review undertaken by the Planning Advisory Service has recommended a clear timetable is developed for the local plan update.