URGENT: New Community Engagement Advice Published; it is very much in your interest to be aware of this

Development is essential if we are to meet our current and future economic, social and environmental needs and aspirations. The planning system guides the future development and use of land - where development should happen, where it should not and how it interacts
with its surroundings. Through a plan-led system, succinct and clear development plans set out ambitious, long-term visions for an area. By taking decisions on applications for planning permission, the future development of an area is set out.

So states the very first paragraph of the latest Government Planning Advice Note*

Para 7 continues:

Whatever the circumstances, it is important that all stakeholders know the extent to which they can be involved in planning decisions, taking into account the practical limits of the process and the constraints within which it operates. For instance, while development plans will set out the planning authority’s policies and proposals, whether development will actually occur on a piece of land will also depend on subsequent regulatory processes, such as the need for planning consent, and a host of other factors including the landowner’s aspirations for the site.

So,

• How does the Government define community engagement?
• What are the roles and responsibilities of the various parties involved in the community engagement aspects of planning? (Government, Local Authorities / Councillors, Community Councils and other interest/ community groups, applicants and their agents)
• What is meant by 'Development Planning' and 'Development Management' and how do you get involved in both processes?
• What is Pre-application consultation?
• What are the national standards for engagement?

For the answer to the above and many other questions click through here now

(*Planning Advice Notes provide advice and information on technical planning matters.)