The purpose of the Advisory Group is to receive
updates and discuss matters relating to the preparation of the
Council’s Local Plan and to assist the Cabinet and Council in
their decision making so as to ensure:
·
that the preparation of the Local Plan is
integrated with the wider aims and objectives of the Council on
behalf of its communities
·
that Members are actively informed on
progress on the Local Plan and provided with appropriate
opportunities to participate in policy development
·
that there is a shared understanding of
issues relating the preparation of the evidence base, arrangements
for community involvement, duty to cooperate with neighbouring
authorities, preparation and publication of documents and
associated public consultation.
·
that there are high levels of public
engagement with the preparation of the Local Plan
Whilst noting that decision making is a matter for
Cabinet and Council, the Advisory Group may be expected to comment
upon:
·
the
implications of the emerging evidence base and arrangements for
community involvement; publication of preparatory draft documents
and associated public consultation.
·
any Local Plan
document for initial consultation;
·
any Proposed
Submission Local Plan Document prior to submission to the Secretary
of State.
·
the
Inspector’s report and recommended modifications after the
Examination.
Whilst it will normally meet in
public the Advisory Group may meet privately to discuss matters
which are confidential or policy related at the discretion of the
Chairperson. As a non-decision making body the format of
information and advice to the Advisory Group will primarily be by
presentation and oral update rather than written report. A
brief minute of the Advisory Group will be taken.