Broads Authority planning policy gets green light
The Broads Authority is one of the first local planning authorities and the first of the national park family to be given the green light for its new core planning strategy.
The strategy is part of the new planning framework introduced in England in 2004 and will guide the conservation and development of the sensitive Broads environment.
The Broads Authority is one of only 11 local planning authorities out of more than 300 to be given a sound status for its core strategy which it has had to develop at the same time as bringing its planning service in house.
Gillian Morgan, Director of Planning and Strategy said: “This is a terrific achievement for the Authority. There were times when we just didn’t think we could make it because new rules and national guidance were being issued every time we reached key stages. Local authorities following us will learn from our experience as pioneers.”
Independent planning inspector Philip Goodman visited the Broads for the examination in April, using several methods of sustainable transport. He went out on a navigation ranger’s launch to inspect the waterways, looking at boatyards and the impact of tourism on conservation. He cycled in the Broads on the Broads Authority’s pool bike and caught a train.
Mr Goodman reported that the core strategy had been prepared in full partnership with local stakeholders, it was founded on substantial evidence and was sound.
“The success of our partnership working came to the fore during the examination,” said Gillian Morgan. “The inspector could see that we were all used to working together and each party respected differing views: from the interests of the marine industry through to the ecologists, while sharing a passion for the Broads and wanting to ensure it remains a living landscape.”
Mr Goodman particularly noted the inextricable link between nature and mankind in this unique living, working landscape. He saw that these complex interactions will continue against a background of rising sea levels, increased flooding and climate change which present significant environmental challenges and opportunities.
Mr Goodman reported on the strict application of a national policy which states that there can be no development in an area at risk from flooding. Mr Goodman said the strategy had to address the extent to which flood risk management can be reconciled with the needs of the Broads to modernise, adapt and prosper when much of the area is potentially at risk from increased flooding.
16/07/2007
