Decision Maker: Executive
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Is Key decision?: Yes
Is subject to call in?: Yes
Temporary changes in respect of publicity for planning policy documents and planning applications during the COVID-19 crisis.
That the Temporary Changes Addendum be approved and
published alongside the Bracknell Forest Statement of Community
Involvement (2014).
National Planning Practice Guidance1 requires local planning authorities to assess
their SCIs to identify whether elements are inconsistent with public health guidelines
and restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Any temporary
amendments that are necessary should then be made. The Bracknell Forest SCI has
been reviewed and areas have been identified where it is considered necessary to
make temporary amendments to enable plan making and other activities to continue.
The main alternative is not to publish the “Addendum” to the SCI but to rely on the
adopted SCI. However as set out in paragraph 3.1 above, the Council is unable to
meet its full consultation and engagement commitments during the COVID-19
pandemic. This could potentially result in failure of the Central and Eastern Berkshire
Joint Minerals and Waste Local Plan and the Bracknell Forest Local Plan to meet the
legal compliance test on Examination and expose the Council to the risk of legal
challenges. It is considered that approval and publication of the “Addendum” is the
most appropriate option.
None
Reason Key: Affects more than 1 ward;
Wards Affected: (All Wards);
Financial Impact: There are no financial implications
Declarations: None
Subject to Urgent Proceedings: No
Making Representations: In writing to the Director: Place, Planning and Regeneration
Other reasons / organisations consulted
The “Addendum” will not be subject
to consultation as it involves temporary measures that reflect
revisions to national planning practice guidance, public health
guidelines and current and emerging legislation.
Consultees
None.
Contact: Max Baker, Assistant Director: Planning Email: max.baker@bracknell-forest.gov.uk Tel: 01344 351902.
Report author: Max Baker
Publication date: 25/08/2020
Date of decision: 25/08/2020
Decided at meeting: 25/08/2020 - Executive
Effective from: 03/09/2020
Accompanying Documents: