Chickerell Neighbourhood Plan 2019-2036

The Chickerell Neighbourhood Plan has been submitted to Dorset Council for examination. 

At the examination, an independent examiner will provide a review of the plan and make recommendations in accordance with the 2011 Localism Act and related regulations.  In particular, the examiner has to consider whether the plan meets certain basic conditions, satisfies legal requirements, and identifies an appropriate area for a referendum.

The basic conditions, which are set out in the legislation, are intended to ensure that neighbourhood plans are compatible with their wider context.  The plan must: 

• have regard to national planning policies and advice contained in guidance issued by the Secretary of State;
• contribute to achieving sustainable development;
• be in general conformity with the strategic policies of the development plan for the area (the West Dorset, Weymouth & Portland Local Plan); and,

• be compatible with EU obligations and human rights requirements

If the neighbourhood plan receives a favourable examination report, and is subsequently supported by a local referendum, it will become part of the development plan. Its policies will be used to make decisions on relevant planning applications in Chickerell alongside other appropriate policies within the remainder of the development plan.

Consultation on the Submitted Plan

As the local planning authority, Dorset Council is required to consult on the plan before the examination takes place.  Everyone (including residents, landowners and businesses) has eight weeks from Friday 21 August to Friday 16 October 2020 to make representations on the plan with regard to the content and how it has been prepared.  An independent examiner is being appointed and any representations will be passed on to them for consideration as part of the examination process.