A plan driven by the community

West Bedlington Town Council has a Neighbourhood Plan, but what exactly is one of these you may ask? Quite simply, it’s an important policy, led by the community, instead of local planning departments. It defines what’s important to local people to help get the right developments in the right places.

Our Neighbourhood Plan has a clear vision; to create a sustainable and cohesive community. By 2036, improvements will have been made to the local environment, employment opportunities, services and facilities. Communities will be well connected via sustainable transport routes to enhance employment opportunities as well as having access to more services and facilities further afield. There will be an appreciation of the importance of the heritage of the area, which will give the local community a sense of belonging.

We have four main objectives to help us to achieve our vision:

• Quality of life

Ensuring any new development is sustainable and contributes positively to the built, historic and natural environment of the area. New developments will be managed to ensure that important green spaces are protected. As part of this, we will work with planning experts to ensure any new buildings fit in with the town’s existing framework and heritage. You may hear us refer to these as ‘design codes’, but in essence, this is why they are put in place.

• Community wellbeing

To build on the strong sense of community and recognise the diverse needs of existing and future residents. This includes supporting the provision of different types of housing that people can afford, and which meets specific needs, including those of an ageing population; ensuring the local community has access to the services and facilities they need.

• Local economy

Supporting both existing and new employment opportunities. Protecting the vitality and viability of the town centre as an important source of local employment and services.

• Accessibility

Promoting access to sustainable modes of transport which connect local communities to employment as well as the services and facilities they require. Ensuring that the environmental quality of the Plan area is protected by effectively managing traffic.

View the Neighbourhood Plan for West Bedlington.