Neighbourhood Plan Review

Some of us will remember the landmark moment in 2018 when the Westfield Neighbourhood Plan went to referendum and was adopted as planning policy. We breathed a collective sigh of relief when, after four years of consultations, drafts and re-drafts, the Plan passed inspection and was welcomed by Westfield.

Back in 2018, the hard work was community-led, with an amazing group of local residents giving up their time to think creatively about how they would like to shape the future of the parish. It was worthwhile work. The Neighbourhood Plan is referenced regularly by the Parish Council when responding to Planning Applications. Some of the items in the Neighbourhood Plan have already come to fruition – Shakespeare Road play area had a complete re-vamp, the Parish Council purchased land at Waterside Valley for a public open space, the Pit Path, joining Westfield to Midsomer Norton, now has effective lighting, and an outdoor gym and fitness track was installed at Westhill Recreation Ground. Other areas are taking longer – the A367 through Westfield is still not satisfactory in terms of water drainage, air pollution and traffic management.

Now it is time to update the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan. It does not involve a complete re-write, but instead we are looking for local people to give their time to read the Plan and suggest updates. What needs modernising? What are the needs of the Parish in 2023? We would love it if you could give your time, in any way, to help drive the Neighbourhood Plan Review. No need for any expertise, simply an interest in Westfield. Could you do this? Please contact Westfield Parish Council on council@westfieldparishcouncil.co.uk or phone 01761 410669.

Thank you.