Safeguarding Southwell
By Peter Scorer
Neighbourhood Plan Review
The Neighbourhood Plan is being reviewed. An update is required every five of six years before it once again becomes a key part of the District Council's planning policies for future development. One Independent and three Lib Dem Councillors together with eight volunteers are undertaking the review.
One important element is the tightening up of policies to reflect the climate change emergency declared by the County, District and Town Councils. It will require developers to be more active in preparing for a low, or zero carbon future. Solar Panels, EV charging points, fibre optic cables and rainwater harvesting are measures, among others, under consideration.
The first draft revised plan should be completed in late spring before going out to public consultation.
Conservation Area Re-Appraisal
Meanwhile the District Council Conservation Team has been reviewing our Conservation Area. Liberal Democrat Councillors are strongly supporting proposals to significantly expand the area to include more open spaces and fields surrounding the town.
If approved, this positive plan to protect the character of Southwell will be incorporated into the Neighbourhood Plan.
For more details see https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/conservationareas/
