FAQs / Next Steps

A Neighbourhood Plan is a community-led planning document that sets out local planning policies for the area. Once made, it forms part of the development plan and helps guide decisions on planning applications.

Neighbourhood Plans are periodically reviewed to ensure policies remain up to date and reflect any changes in local priorities, evidence, and national or local planning policy.

A review updates parts of the made Neighbourhood Plan. This can include refreshing evidence, amending wording for clarity, updating policies, and/or adding or adjusting proposals to reflect current circumstances.

“Material” changes are changes that are meaningful and could affect how the plan is applied. They are more than minor edits (such as spelling or formatting). The review is consulting on proposed updates that we consider material.

A referendum is not anticipated for this review because the proposed updates are expected to be material but not to change the nature of the plan.

The final decision on the statutory route (including whether a referendum is required) will be informed by the local authority’s checks and, if needed, independent examination.

We are consulting on the updated draft Neighbourhood Plan (often known as the Regulation 14 consultation stage). This is your opportunity to comment on the proposed changes before the plan is finalised and submitted.

• Tell us which part of the draft you’re commenting on (policy number/section).
• Explain what you support or what you think should change, and why.
• Where possible, suggest alternative wording or provide evidence.
• Point out anything unclear, inconsistent, or missing.

The review is being led locally by the qualifying body (the parish/community group responsible for the plan), working with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and specialist support as required.

All comments received during the consultation will be recorded, reviewed, and considered. They will help shape the next version of the reviewed plan and will inform the Consultation Statement that accompanies submission.

1. We review the feedback and update the draft plan where appropriate.
2. The plan is submitted to the local authority for checks and publicity.
3. If required, the plan is examined independently.
4. The updated plan can then be brought into force through the statutory process (a referendum is not anticipated for this review).

No. The Neighbourhood Plan sets planning policies for the area. Planning permission is the separate process used to decide individual development proposals, taking account of the development plan (including the Neighbourhood Plan) and other relevant considerations.

• Read the draft reviewed Neighbourhood Plan and supporting documents.
• Submit comments through this consultation website before the closing date.
• If you’re representing an organisation, please say who you represent.

Consultation responses may be published as part of the consultation record. Personal data will be handled in line with the relevant privacy notice. Please avoid including sensitive personal information in your comments.