Free development advice


Planning minister Greg Clark has unveiled a scheme offering communities free access to expert advice and guidance to help make their neighbourhood visions a reality.

The Localism Bill will create new powers for people to shape their own development through a neighbourhood plan, from determining the locations of shops, offices and schools to setting the standards of design for new housing.

Clark announced four organisations with planning expertise that would share a £3.2m fund to provide help for local groups developing neighbourhood plans. The advice can be taken up through The Prince’s Foundation, Locality, The Royal Town Planning Institute, and the National Association of Local Councils in partnership with the Campaign to Protect Rural England.

Each organisation will use its expertise, skills and track record advising on development to empower communities to reach the full potential of their neighbourhood plan from start to finish. The remit ranges from understanding the planning process and finding local solutions through to developing clear documents and building community support.