Dittisham Parish Neighbourhood Plan
Thank you for your interest in the Dittisham Parish Neighbourhood Plan. We have started the process with a questionnaire to all houses in the Parish so that we can start from what those who know and live in the Parish want for its future. We have had a total of 168 responses – an excellent return rate. As the process unfolds, we will post notices of further public meetings and consultations. In the meantime, here are some answers to potential questions:
What is the point of a Neighbourhood Plan?
At the moment, unlike many parishes in the South Hams and beyond, Dittisham does not have a Neighbourhood Plan.
If a Neighbourhood Plan is in place then planners have to take account of what it says. when deciding planning applications. We know the national pressure for more houses. A Neighbourhood Plan for Dittisham will help to ensure that if there is more building in the Parish, it is in the places and of the kind that we want to see. This is all the more important now because. one way or another, the “local” planning authority of the South Hams will be replaced by a more remote planning authority under a new unitary authority likely based in Exeter or Plymouth. A Neighbourhood Plan will help to rebalance the planning process to ensure the local voice is heard.
The Plan can:
- protect local green spaces
- encourage better designed places
- bring forward housing that genuinely meets local needs
Who is behind this initiative?
There have been several public meetings over the last year open to all parishioners.
The plan is being co-ordinated by a small group of volunteers. You can see their names at the bottom of this letter. The Parish Council are sponsoring but not leading the process.
So how does it work?
This survey is the first step. We want to gather your views about what you want to protect about the Parish, and you would like to see improved. We will hold a public meeting later in the Spring to share with you the emerging results. We will carry out further consultation. We then draft the Plan in line with current planning law and guidance. All parishioners can then vote in a referendum on whether to approve the plan. An independent inspector reviews it. Finally, the District Council have to approve it. The Plan then has to be considered as part of the statutory planning process.
What if there are parts of the Parish that I want to stay just as they are?
You need to say so.
What if I think the Parish does need improvements and developments?
You need to say so.
Are my views anonymous?
Yes. We will collate all views together.
Do I really need to bother?
YES. This is an opportunity for you to shape the future of Dittisham Parish. Every view is valuable and needed.
Thank you!
The Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group:
Richard Bond, Alison Crowter, James Crowter, Mark Dampier, Martin Fodder, Liz Hawkes, David Hawkes, Tessa Howard, Johnny Moulsdale, Ros Neale, James Newey, Roger Pope, Ian Wakeling, Camilla Ween, Paul Yeadon, Mike Taylor