DDNP – 7 Parishes in Partnership

Diss & District Neighbourhood Plan – Seven Parishes in Partnership

Readers will be pleased to hear that, following on from several years hard work and extensive community consultation, the Diss and District Neighbourhood Plan was submitted to South Norfolk Council as the lead Planning Authority in mid-July. This marked a huge milestone on the journey of this Plan, which is one of the most complex currently being undertaken in the UK given that it comprises seven parishes across two local authority areas. The DDNP will offer more protection to local green spaces, heritage assets, important views, growth and infrastructure, green corridors and biodiversity enhancement, road traffic improvements, walking and cycling networks and delivering housing growth of the right scale and mix in the locations preferred by residents. A made plan would also increase the amount of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money that the town receives from 15% to 25% (net increase of 66%). “Pulling together feedback received during both our Regulation 14 consultations into the final submission draft of the proposed Plan, along with a Consultation Statement that actually exceeded the plan in length, was a huge undertaking for the steering group and our consultants,” confirmed Diss Mayor Cllr Eric Taylor, a member of the steering group leading on the development of the Plan. “It will go before SNC’s Cabinet hopefully during October, and if the vote is positive, the DDNP can then go on to its Regulation 16 consultation and independent examination. Following on from this, and subject to comments received back, there will be the Referendum which we hope will be well supported by the parishes involved and leads to a positive vote to accept the Plan.” We are hoping this all happens in good time, and will let you know, via the www.ddnp.info website as things progress.