As statutory planning documents, neighbourhood plans must be prepared to meet various legal tests – importantly they are required to:

• have regard to national policies and advice.  The National Planning Policy Framework sets out the government’s planning policies for England.  National Planning Practice Guidance provides more detailed advice on several topics.

• be in ‘general conformity’ with the strategic policies contained in the development plan for the area.  In the case of our plan, the strategic planning policies are contained within the County Durham Plan and the interactive policies map. 

There are also other documents and evidence reports prepared by Durham County Council that could contain information to inform the preparation of the Consett Neighbourhood Plan:

County Durham Plan Supporting Documents
Current masterplan for Consett 

 A number of other communities across the county have prepared or are preparing neighbourhood plans.  More information is available on the Durham County Council website HERE