25 May 2018 - The Sutton Poyntz Society and Planning
Dear all,
The Sutton Poyntz Society and Planning
Following a lively debate at the AGM on policies and rules, the May meeting of the SPS Committee discussed how it should evolve to operate within the forthcoming Neighbourhood Plan.
"Conservation” being the original raison d’etre of the Society, Committee members have tried to apply the Society's Planning Policy to planning applications in as fair and objective a way as they possibly can, but over the last few years have come under increasing personal pressure from villagers of all persuasions. It has increasingly appeared to the Committee members that the Society's planning role divides the village rather than brings people together.
As the future Neighbourhood Plan should make case-by-case planning reviews unnecessary, it was proposed that the Committee’s role in reviewing planning applications be de-emphasised.
The Committee voted unanimously that starting with the current May meeting it would not discuss or carry out any planning related activities for a period, presently undefined, possibly up to the emergence of the Neighbourhood Forum Plan. Comments on new applications should only be made by concerned individuals.
The Society had also been a place where residents considering submitting a planning application could come for advice. The Committee felt that the Borough Council is a more appropriate place for advice on planning matters, which can be found at https://www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/planning
Anyone with a different view on Society activity is free to join the Committee to express that view - which could be especially valuable now that the Committee has only just enough members to carry on its business.
Regards
Chris