Parish "pop in" sessions to be rolled out across the Broads
The Broads Authority held the first of a series of parish “pop-in” sessions at Hoveton Village Hall, in the heart of the Broads, to enable residents to ask questions about anything from planning applications to waterways and countryside issues.
A steady stream of residents and parish councillors raised largely planning issues ranging from “what do I need to do to extend my house?” to queries about conservation area appraisals and dangerous trees. A number of visitors brought photos and plans with them.
The “pop-ins” were a long held ambition of the Authority’s Planning Committee chairman Candy Sheridan to increase engagement between planners and local communities.
Planning Parish Forum
The concept was unveiled at the recent Planning Parish Forum, when over 40 parish councillors met Broads Authority planners and shared their views on a number of issues (pictured.) The idea of the public having the opportunity to drop into their local hall where officers would be on hand to offer help and advice was enthusiastically received and it was suggested that the idea be broadened to include the Authority’s other services.
The first session was targeted at Hoveton and its surrounding parishes but more are planned for the rest of the Broads area. Others will be held at Oulton Broad Community Centre on the 25th November, Martham Methodist Room on 27 January and Thorpe St Andrew Village Hall on 31 March. All are from 2pm to 7pm.
03/11/09
